Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Occasional bad breath is normal and often temporary, but chronic bad breath can be a sign of deeper issues that require professional attention. While brushing, flossing, and drinking water may temporarily mask the problem, they won’t eliminate the root cause.

• Gum Disease: Bacterial buildup and gum inflammation can contribute to persistent bad breath.
• Cavities and Infections: Tooth decay or untreated infections can release unpleasant odors.
• Dry Mouth: Insufficient saliva production can lead to a dry environment where odor-causing bacteria thrive.
• Tobacco Use: Cigarettes and other tobacco products can cause persistent mouth odor and contribute to other oral health issues.
• Dental Appliances: Poorly cleaned dentures or mouthguards can harbor bacteria that cause bad breath.

While many cases of bad breath are linked to oral health, some instances may indicate non-dental issues such as:

• Sinus Infections
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD)
• Liver or Kidney Disorders

If we suspect a medical condition is the cause, we’ll recommend consulting with your physician for further evaluation.

Your treatment plan at Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics will depend on the underlying cause of your bad breath. Here’s how we can help:

If gum disease is identified as the cause, we may recommend a deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) to remove plaque and tartar buildup below the gum line and help restore gum health.

LEARN MORE ABOUT PERIODONTAL CARE

For patients with tooth decay or infection, treating the affected tooth with a filling or root canal can eliminate the source of the odor.

LEARN MORE ABOUT FILLINGS AND RESTORATIONS    |    LEARN MORE ABOUT ROOT CANAL THERAPY

If nighttime mouth breathing contributes to dry mouth and bad breath, a custom-made night guard may be recommended to help maintain oral moisture and reduce bacteria.

LEARN MORE ABOUT NIGHT GUARDS

To keep bad breath at bay, consider these preventive measures:

• Brush and Floss Daily: Clean your teeth thoroughly and include your tongue.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking water helps keep your mouth moist and flushes away food particles.
• Avoid Tobacco Products: Quit smoking and reduce the use of tobacco for better oral health.
• Visit Regularly: Keep up with biannual dental checkups and cleanings.
• Breathe Through Your Nose: Whenever possible, avoid mouth breathing, as it can dry out your mouth.

Patients in Metairie and the greater New Orleans area trust Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics for their bad breath treatment because of our thorough, compassionate approach. We work closely with you to identify the underlying cause of your halitosis and create a treatment plan that fits your needs, improving both your oral health and confidence.

Struggling with persistent bad breath? Schedule your consultation at Russo Family Dentistry & Aesthetics today and take the first step toward fresher breath and a healthier mouth.