Halitosis can be a source of self-consciousness for many individuals. The chronic bad breath could stem from underlying dental problems, which is why you should schedule regular checkups with your dentist. They will provide treatment to address the lingering odor, as well as any other oral health concerns. For a better idea of what to expect, here are answers to common questions about the condition. 

4 FAQ About Halitosis

What are the common causes of halitosis?

Food particles can get stuck in cavities and the pockets between teeth caused by gum disease. The deteriorating food residue mixes with saliva, causing foul-smelling bacteria to form. 

A mouth, throat, or nose infection could also be the underlying cause of halitosis, as smelly bacteria can thrive in the buildup of mucus caused by the infection. 

Smoking and taking certain medications cause dry mouth. This means the body does not produce enough saliva to wash away food particles. 

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of halitosis can vary, depending on what's causing the condition. You might, for example, notice a persistent bitter or metallic taste in your mouth or a burning sensation on your tongue. 

If you have a halitosis-causing sinus infection, you might have post-nasal drip. A stuffed-up nose forces you to breathe through your mouth more, which causes dry mouth and saliva to become thicker.  

How is the condition diagnosed?

To determine if you have bad breath, you can lick your wrist and then smell the saliva. After flossing, smell the waxy string for a bad aroma as well. 

During routine teeth cleaning, your dentist will look for signs of infection, cavities, or other bad breath causes. They will also scrape the back of the tongue and then smell the scraper if there is a cause for concern.   

What are the treatment options?

If your dentist determines you have halitosis caused by a problem with your teeth or gums, they will provide treatment to eliminate the bad breath. This could include filling cavities or providing a deep cleaning to remove smelly plaque below the gum line. Antibacterial mouth rinses and toothpastes might also be prescribed to stop bacteria buildup.   

To find out why you have bad breath, reach out to Bream Family Dental Care in Waynesboro, VA. The dental office has been serving residents of Augusta County for over 25 years, which means you can trust the family dentist to provide tooth fillings, cleanings, root canals, and additional treatment to address your oral health concerns. The affordable dentist is accepting new patients, so call (540) 949-7246 for a consultation for general or cosmetic procedures. For a better idea of what to expect, read patient testimonials online.