What causes halitosis?

Halitosis isn’t just the bad breath you get after eating something like a raw onion, but rather is chronic and persistent. It’s often a sign of an underlying oral health issue, such as:

• Cavities and more extensive tooth decay
• Gum disease
• Cracked fillings
• Mouth, nose, or throat infections
• Dry mouth caused by medications, medical conditions, or excessive alcohol use
• Smoking and tobacco use
• Infection following oral surgery

At IPI of Torrance, Drs. Lo and Yamada are the only periodontists in the area to actually have and use a Halimeter which will detect the severity of your halitosis (bad breath). Studies have shown that 75% or more of the halitosis is due to a dental condition and can be improved. Other causes can be improved through referral to the proper physician or specialists.

If the team at IPI of Torrance can’t find an oral cause, halitosis may be a sign of another condition, including kidney or liver disease. Less serious causes of halitosis can include a crash diet, steady consumption of raw garlic and tuna, or a sinus infection.

What steps can I take if I have halitosis?

If you notice chronic bad breath, examine your at-home oral hygiene habits. Make sure you brush your teeth, gums, and tongue at least twice daily, preferably after meals, and keep it up for a solid two minutes.

Use a fluoride toothpaste and floss between all of your teeth at least once a day. Stay hydrated, chew sugarless gum, and cut back on caffeine to offset dry mouth and keep your mouth healthy. It’s also important to keep up with regular professional cleanings by going to the dentist’s office at least twice a year.

If you have dentures or a removable dental appliance, such as a retainer, make sure you keep it clean, too. Change your toothbrush every two to three months to discourage odorous bacteria from developing.

When revisions to your oral hygiene habits don’t help, come to IPI of Torrance to have your mouth evaluated. If an underlying oral condition is causing your halitosis, such as decay or periodontal disease, treatment may include extractions, scaling and planing that clears the pockets of bacteria in your gums, or gum grafts. You may also benefit from a fix for faulty restorations, such as broken bridges or crowns, or a replacement of these devices.

If you have bad breath that persists and causes you embarrassment, even if you brush your teeth and rinse your mouth regularly, call IPI of Torrance or book an appointment online today for an evaluation.