Halitosis: Understanding Chronic Bad Breath and Seeking Care from Your Lincoln Park Dentist
What is Halitosis? Halitosis is more than just a case of morning breath. It’s chronic bad breath that persists despite mints, mouthwash, or thorough brushing. If it lingers for an extended period, it could indicate an underlying issue. When facing halitosis in the Lincoln Park or Old Town area of Chicago, seeking care from a trusted Lincoln Park dentist or Old Town dentist is essential for addressing the root cause and finding effective solutions.
What Causes Halitosis?
Cavities and Gum Disease: Cavities and pockets resulting from gum disease provide hiding spots for bad breath-causing bacteria. These areas are challenging to clean with regular brushing or flossing, leading to persistent bad breath.
Mouth, Nose, and Throat Infections: Infections in the nose, sinuses, or throat can trigger postnasal drip, contributing to bad breath. Symptoms may include head or facial fullness, congestion, and breathing difficulties. An ENT specialist can diagnose the underlying cause, ranging from allergies to more severe conditions like sinus blockages, and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include medication or surgery.
Dry Mouth: Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can be caused by various factors such as medications, certain medical conditions, alcohol or tobacco use, and radiation therapy to the head and neck. Saliva plays a crucial role in oral health by washing away bacteria from the teeth’s surface and containing antimicrobial agents and enzymes. Insufficient saliva production can lead to cavities and gum disease, contributing to bad breath.
Smoking Tobacco: Tobacco products not only leave an odor on the breath but also contribute to dry mouth. Smokers are at a higher risk of developing gum disease, which can exacerbate halitosis.
Other Chronic Conditions Associated with Halitosis:
Halitosis is often linked to oral issues, but it can also be a sign of underlying health conditions such as:
Gastric reflux
Diabetes
Liver disease
Kidney disease
Handling Halitosis:
If you’ve been struggling with bad breath, follow these steps to maintain oral hygiene:
Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes using fluoride toothpaste.
Floss daily to clean between teeth and remove plaque buildup.
Schedule regular dental check-ups with your trusted Chicago dentist in Lincoln Park or Old Town to detect and address any cavities or gum disease.
Don’t let halitosis affect your confidence. Take proactive steps to maintain oral health and address any underlying issues contributing to chronic bad breath.