Bad Breath Causes and Suggested Solutions

Bad Breath Causes and Suggested Solutions

Understanding the intricate relationship between bad breath and gingivitis symptoms is crucial in providing effective treatment. Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is often discovered by a dental practitioner or primary care physician during routine examinations.¹ Patients are often concerned about bad breath, because it could have social implications that would make them uncomfortable. It's also important to explore the cause, as it could also be due to an underlying symptom of gingivitis and if not treated, periodontal disease.¹

If a patient has been practicing a daily oral hygiene routine, that includes flossing and toothbrushing, yet halitosis is still present, this might be a sign of more pressing health problems. Learn about suggested bad breath treatment and what to look out for in case there are other issues present.

Exploring the Link Between Bad Breath and Gum Disease Symptoms

Halitosis often stems from various factors. Among the primary causes are gingival and periodontal diseases and trapped food particles in the spaces between the teeth and gums.¹ This can occur even in individuals with healthy gums and good dental hygiene.¹ However, gingivitis, the early stage of gum disease, manifests through swollen, bleeding gums and is often accompanied by bad breath.³

Gingivitis causes irritation, redness, swelling and bleeding of the gingiva, which is the part of the gums around the base of one’s teeth.³ It can manifest as red, puffy gums that may bleed during brushing or flossing.² As the first stage of gum disease, it is reversible with prompt treatment if caught early.²

Almost half of all adults in the United States have some form of gum disease, and it is the leading cause of tooth loss.² In gum or periodontal disease, you might notice the additional following symptoms in a patient:²

• Discolored, reddish or purplish gums
• Bleeding
• Soreness
• Pain when chewing
• Gum recession causing loose teeth
• Bad breath

How Do Dental Professionals Diagnose Gum Disease?

During routine examinations, dentists can spot the early signs of gingivitis by looking for plaque buildup.¹ Professionals will recommend treatment or refer patients to a gum specialist such as a periodontist before gum disease worsens.²

Advanced gum disease can lead to bone loss, which can be a painful condition that can also lead to the loss of teeth. A periodontist can check a number of things including a patient’s bite, how loose their teeth are and how much their gums may be receding.² Dental x-rays can illustrate how much bone remains after periodontal disease.²

Strategies to Help Manage Bad Breath: Prioritize Gum Health

Focusing on gum health is important when starting to address the concerns related to bad breath. Since bad breath often acts as a signal for underlying gum issues, it’s vital to emphasize that following a daily oral care routine that includes regular brushing, flossing, and scheduling professional cleanings. Use products that have a focus on gum health to assist with a holistic approach to combating bad breath originating from gum disease.

Incorporating a specialized toothpaste like parodontax Active Gum Repair Breath Freshener can help reverse the 4 signs of early gum problems: bleeding, redness, swelling and bad breath.*

*vs. a regular toothpaste used by people who have gingivitis