Diagnosing and Treating Halitosis in the Irvine, CA Area

Factors That Affect Bad Breath

Occasional, temporary bad breath is normal. But reoccurring bad breath is usually a symptom of something that requires treatment or lifestyle changes. Dr. Todd E. Miller and Steven J. Bounds have helped many patients with chronic halitosis in the Irvine, CA region tackle the problem. 

The Most Common Reasons for Bad Breath:

• Gum disease, tooth decay, or other infections in the mouth
• Health problems elsewhere in the body
• Food and tobacco

How To Prevent Bad Breath

• Practice good oral hygiene by brushing teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing regularly
• Have teeth professionally cleaned according to your treatment plan
• Stop smoking or chewing tobacco-based products
• Stimulate saliva flow in the mouth by drinking lots of water, chewing gum, or sucking on sugar-free candy
• Maintain a food log to identify any foods with strong odors

Embarrassed By Bad Breath?

  

Bad Breath: Cause and Treatment

Gum Disease

A buildup of bacteria in the mouth will cause bad breath unless it is removed with good, daily oral hygiene. Brush, floss, and scrape the tongue daily, and visit maintain regular checkups and cleanings. Otherwise, gum disease may develop, causing even more damage to teeth and gums. Halitosis caused by gum disease will not go away on its own and requires professional periodontal treatment to avoid damage to teeth, gums, and bone. Dr. Miller and Dr. Bounds offer a variety of treatments for gum disease, including contemporary, minimally invasive laser therapy.

Health Problems

Bad breath can be a symptom of illness elsewhere in the body or side effects of medications. Lung disease, kidney disease, digestive problems, diabetes, oral yeast, sinus infections, and other disorders can cause chronic halitosis, along with certain medications. Check with your medical doctor to discuss these possibilities.

Food and Tobacco

Even the healthiest of foods, like fish, garlic, onions, spices, and cheese, can cause frequent bad breath when consumed regularly. Chewing gum, mints, brushing, and gargling may provide temporary odor relief but the food really needs to move through the body entirely before the smell goes away. Keeping a food diary can be helpful in determining whether your diet is causing bad breath. Tobacco is another culprit and it causes fatal disease. If you smoke or chew, make a point to stop. Tobacco also encourages plaque growth, which leads to gum disease.

The Benefits of Liquids

Keeping the body hydrated is recommended for overall good health and can do a lot to help curb halitosis, as well. Drinking plenty of liquids, particularly fresh water, can inhibit odor from forming.

If you are concerned about bad breath, you are not alone. Dr. Miller and Dr. Bounds have successfully treated many patients with chronic halitosis in the Irvine, CA region. Call or contact our office today for a private consultation!