Bad breath doesn’t have to keep you from getting close. If you’ve got bad breath that just won’t go away, there’s help available. Bad breath may be embarrassing, but the good news is that there are several treatment options that can eliminate bad breath for good. Treatment for bad breath may be available at your local cosmetic dentistry practice.
The Origins of Bad Breath
Bad breath is caused by bacteria that hide under the tongue and in the grooves and rough edges of teeth. As bacteria come in contact with food particles they can turn these food particles into volatile sulfur compounds, or VSCs. Sometimes, lack of regular brushing and flossing can encourage the reaction that leads to bad breath. And, of course, eating foods like garlic and onions can contribute to foul-smelling breath. For many people, however, bad breath may occur regardless of how healthy your teeth and gums are. When the bad breath sticks around, it is most likely a problem that requires attention. The important thing is to never assume that a condition like bad breath is just a fact of life. It may actually be a medical problem that can be fixed with proper diagnosis and treatment. It’s up to you to seek help.
Bad Breath Treatments
The source of bad breath is in the mouth, so treatment is focused here. Attacking bad breath starts with a plan to eliminate the bacteria from the mouth. Depending on the origin of your bad breath and where the bacteria may be hiding, there may be a number of options available to help curb the odor. Bad breath treatment options may include one or combination of the following:
• Specially formulated mouth rinses
• Diet and/or hygiene changes
• Dental restorations such as porcelain fillings and crowns
• Tongue scraping
• Updating old dental work
• Gum disease treatment
• Plaque removal
Over-the-counter remedies that claim to eliminate the problem of bad breath work by masking the odor. If you’re seeking a solution to chronic bad breath, talk to a cosmetic dentist who offers bad breath treatment. Your bad breath treatment will be personalized for your unique needs, depending on where your dentist feels the odor-causing bacteria are originating from.
The Importance of Seeking Treatment
While most cases of bad breath are nothing to worry about, bad breath can signal an ongoing health problem such as diabetes, liver or kidney disease, gum disease, or others. If you or someone you know has chronic bad breath, set up a consultation with an experienced cosmetic dentist who offers bad breath treatment.