Almost everyone has experienced bad breath, also known as halitosis. Temporary bad breath can be caused by what you eat, such as onions and garlic. But if you experience constant bad breath the cause could be something more serious.
The Most Common Cause of Bad Breath
The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene, or not regularly brushing your teeth and flossing. The result could cause periodontitis and dental plaque.
Periodontitis
Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is an infection that affects the tissues surrounding and supporting the teeth. It is caused by bacteria in dental plaque accumulating on teeth and gums. The bacteria in dental plaque produce toxins that irritate the gums, causing them to swell and form pus pockets under the gum line called periodontal pockets, or deep pockets. Bacteria from these deep pockets can then travel through blood vessels to other parts of the body, causing inflammation elsewhere. Periodontitis can also lead to tooth loss but it can be reversed. A thorough cleaning by a dental hygienist can usually improve the condition. Surgery may be required in some advanced cases.
Dental Plaque
Dental plaque is a sticky film on teeth consisting mostly of bacteria which forms around food particles stuck between teeth or on surfaces of teeth where saliva cannot reach. Dental plaque is commonly found on the teeth and gums of humans and other animals. Plaque is a biofilm that consists of bacteria covered by a slimy layer of tooth-colored (the color varies depending on the type of bacteria present) mucus secreted by cells in the gum. Plaque build up can lead to gingivitis, which is inflammation of the gums that can cause redness, swelling and bleeding. If left untreated gingivitis can turn into periodontitis.
What Can I Do About My Constant Bad Breath?
If your bad breath does not go away make an appointment with your dentist. They can determine if your halitosis is caused by gum disease or something else, such as digestive disorder, smoking, diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, tonsil stones, autoimmune disease, and certain cancers.
Sun City Dental
11240 Montwood Dr Ste J
El Paso, TX 79936
915-201-2539
Sun City Dental
8611 N. Loop Dr.
El Paso, TX 79907
915-859-2690
Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this article and other articles on this website at the time it was written. The information contained in this blog post is not intended to be a substitute for proper dental care as recommend by your trained dentist. We are not responsible for any of the results you experience while applying the information contained on the smilesuncitydental.com website. It is our sincere desire to continue to provide quality information as it relates to dental matters covered in this website and it is our aim to provide accurate information as it relates to your dental care.
