Treating Bad Breath – Bergenfield, NJ

Why Choose Washington Dental Associates for Help Treating Bad Breath?

• Compassionate & Experienced Dentists
• Comprehensive Periodontal Therapy
• All Ages Welcome

What is Halitosis?

Research has shown that over 90 million people struggle with chronic bad breath. This condition, known as halitosis, can have a range of causes, but the most common is poor oral hygiene. Failing to brush and floss will leave decaying food particles or bacteria in the mouth, resulting in the unpleasant sulfur compounds that define bad breath. However, frequent bad breath isn’t just a sign of poor oral hygiene. It’s also a symptom of periodontal disease, commonly known as gum disease. This very serious condition affects a majority of the U.S. adult population and can make patients susceptible to a range of issues. There are also a wide range of other issues that may cause halitosis, but there’s also good news for patients who struggle with it—it’s treatable!

Causes of Chronic Bad Breath

While poor oral hygiene, gum disease, and bad breath-causing foods are the leading causes of halitosis, there are other reasons why patients may experience these issues. In addition to the common oral hygiene related halitosis, chronic bad breath has a number of other causes, including:

• Dry mouth – This oral health condition can allow plaque to build up on teeth and break down tooth enamel.
• Medications – Some medications can lead to dry mouth or metallic odors.
• Oral infection – If you notice swelling or sores in the mouth, you may have an oral infection that can cause bad breath.
• Tonsillitis – Infection or sickness in the tonsils can lead to foul breath.
• Other disease – A variety of other disease, especially those relating to digestion, can also lead to bad breath.

How Is Bad Breath Treated?

If you’re one of those 90 million people with chronic bad breath, we can provide treatment that will kill the bacteria in your mouth and give you renewed confidence. Our treatment plan begins with a thorough exam to identify any underlying dental or medical health problems. We’ll also suggest an oral health care plan that includes regular cleanings, brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and tongue cleaning. Some patients may benefit from professional breath treatment products as well. Most people notice an immediate improvement. Every patient is different, so we will take the time to personalize the treatment to address the specific underlying cause of your bad breath.

Tips to Improve Bad Breath

If you’re struggling with chronic bad breath, there are some steps you can take to keep your smile healthy and breath fresh before visiting the dentist’s office. Some of the basic ways to keep your breath fresh include:

• Brush teeth for at least two minutes at a time twice a day.
• Floss daily.
• Always brush your tongue, gums, and soft tissue.
• Use antimicrobial mouth rinse between meals.
• Drink plenty of water, especially if you have dry mouth.
• Clean dentures, sleep apnea devices, and other oral appliances thoroughly each day.
• Chew sugar-free gum after meals to remove food particles and improve breath.
• If you suffer from dry mouth, use a moisturizing oral rinse and/or suck on a sugar-free lozenge.