At least it’s not a toothache; but still, persistent bad breath can make you uncomfortable, especially as you try to interact with your friends, family, and coworkers. You can turn your head to redirect your breath as you speak, but then looking them in the eyes might be difficult. You can chew sugarless gum or suck on a sugarless mint, but that might not completely cover your breath. Even if it does, your bad breath will be back as soon as the taste is gone. Or, you can visit your general dentist, find out why your breath won’t improve, and treat the problem once and for all.
Preventive Checkups and Cleanings
Bad breath, or halitosis, often results from an excess accumulation of oral bacteria—translation: too much dental plaque from poor hygiene practices. Many mouth germs release foul-smelling sulfur gases when they metabolize, and if they overwhelm your mouth, so can their stinky waste gases. Attending a dental checkup and cleaning every six months allows Dr. Stewart to clean the plaque and tartar (calcified plaque) from your teeth, eliminating the common sources of bad breath and other dental issues.
Suggestions from a Professional
If you don’t take care of your dental hygiene at home, then even periodic professional cleanings won’t be able to protect your smile, or your breath. If your home hygiene isn’t as effective as it should be, then our caring team of dental professionals will help educate you on proper hygiene practices. Dr. Stewart can also recommend certain products, like antibacterial mouthrinse to target harmful oral germs, and small changes you can make to avoid feeding overactive oral bacteria. Using the innovative BreathRx® system of fresh-breath products, Dr. Stewart can help you conquer bad breath at its source, as well as prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar.
Restorative Treatments, if Necessary
During your routine dental visit, Dr. Stewart will thoroughly inspect your teeth, gums, and oral tissues for abnormalities that could indicate a developing disease. A decaying tooth or diseased gums can release chemicals that cause bad breath, and treating the issue may be the only way to relieve your halitosis (and save your oral health). If necessary, Dr. Stewart will perform an appropriate restorative procedure (i.e., dental filling, root canal therapy, or gum disease treatment) to treat the disease and its uncomfortable symptoms.
About Your Livonia General Dentist:
To learn more about the variety of dental services we offer, including expert preventive care and fresh breath maintenance, visit us as soon as possible for a thorough examination. James Steward, DDS, and our compassionate staff proudly serve patients of all ages from Livonia, Farmington Hills, Plymouth, Northville, Dearborn Heights, Garden City, and all surrounding communities. To schedule an appointment, call our office today at (734) 425-4400.