What does your dentist do for bad breath? Find out why you should be talking to him about this condition.
You should talk to your dentist about many things when you visit for your checkup. Some people,
though, may not want to talk about bad breath. The misconception is that bad breath is a sign of poor oral hygiene habits, which it can be. However, it can also be a sign of another problem, especially if you suffer from this condition in a serious or regular form. For individuals who have a significant odor problem, the first step is to talk to a professional.
Why It Matters
Why does it matter if you have an odor? Doesn't this just mean that you need to brush more frequently? In some cases, that is the underlying problem and improving your oral hygiene habits can boost your overall freshness. However, over a period of time, plaque and tartar build up. That substance cannot be removed easily through brushing. Bacteria invade not only the teeth, but the gums. It then moves under the gums, to the areas under the tooth and near the root. This leads to infections and buildup of plaque.
It is these bacteria that causes the smell you have. The bad breath is the gas from the bacteria. The more bacteria present, the worse your breath may smell. Eventually, brushing is not enough. You will need to talk to your dentist about solutions to improve your condition.
What to Know
There are a few things to know about your bad breath. It is a good idea to talk to your dentist about these things.
• Does brushing no longer get rid of the odor? This could indicate the need treatment of gingivitis or more significant forms of gum disease.
• Are you following the proper routine for oral hygiene? This includes brushing at least two times per day, flossing at least once and using a non-alcoholic mouth rinse at least two times per day.
• Do you need a deep cleaning? Sometimes, a deep cleaning is the only way to remove the built up bacteria present in the mouth, and therefore to reverse the effects of gingivitis.
• Ask your dentist if you have periodontal disease. This is a condition in which the plaque buildup and begins to attack the gums as well as the underlying bone structures in the mouth. It may require improved treatment.
• Ask your dentist what you can do to remove the foul smell. What is the cause and what could be done will vary from person to person.
Discuss your situation with your dentist. Find out what his or her expert opinion is. Chances are good that you will find yourself with fresh smelling, breath if you take the time to discuss this problem with your dental care provider. Ask for recommendations to ensure this does not affect you again in the future, too.
