Bad breath, or halitosis, is an extremely embarrassing condition that can affect your confidence and your relationships, particularly with your spouse or significant other. However, finding the cause for your bad breath is not always easy. If you suffer from halitosis and are unsure of the cause, our Salt Lake City practice offers the diagnosis and treatment you need. Dr. James M. Wright will provide a thorough consultation and evaluation, performed with great discretion and compassion. To find relief for your halitosis, Dr. Wright can perform restorative dentistry treatments to improve the health of your teeth and gums.

Food

As you digest food or drink, the substance enters your blood stream and travels around your body, including to your lungs. When you breathe, you then exhale microscopic particles of whatever you consumed. If you consistently eat odorous foods such as garlic, onions, and peppers, you may have a chronic problem. Fortunately, in this situation, there is an easy cure for your halitosis, although it may mean cutting back on some of your favorite foods. 

Bacteria and Decay

Bacteria carry their own distinct odors. If you do not brush and floss properly, bacteria and bits of food may accumulate on your teeth, lending a sour note to your breath. Additionally, if you have a cavity or an abscessed tooth, you may suffer from chronic halitosis. However, like many patients, you may not have any discomfort, and therefore you may assume that dental decay is not an issue. In many cases, patients do not even realize they have decay or a dental infection until they seek treatment for their bad breath. Restorative dentistry treatments, such as fillings and root canals, are typically the best options in such cases.

Gum Disease

Similarly, gum disease occurs when bacteria accumulates below your gum line, gathering in pockets under the soft tissue. As the bacteria spread, your gums may begin to pull away from your teeth and you may experience gum sensitivity, loose teeth, and - you guessed it - bad breath. In the early stages, Dr. Wright can often treat gum disease with a routine cleaning. However, more advanced cases often require more aggressive care such as scaling and planing. 

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth occurs when your body does not produce enough saliva to keep your mouth sufficiently hydrated. While this can cause minor discomfort, it can also lead to bad breath and other problems, since there is not enough saliva to wash away bacteria and bits of food. Because dry mouth is often the symptom of a separate condition or a side effect of certain medications, Dr. Wright may recommend that you talk to your physician about additional medical treatments. In the meantime, he can help you control your dry mouth and bad breath. You should drink plenty of water, be extra vigilant about your dental hygiene, and schedule dental exams more than twice a year. You may also want to use an over the counter mouthwash or spray to help keep your mouth hydrated.

Other Health Conditions

Certain medical problems can also cause halitosis. These conditions include:

• Throat infections
• Stones on the tonsils
• Acid reflux
• Sinus infections
• Diabetes
• Thrush
• Bronchitis

Of course, in such situations, the best way to manage your bad breath is to seek treatment for these underlying conditions

Find the Cure for Your Bad Breath

Don’t let halitosis affect your life and relationships. Call our office today to set up your initial consultation. Dr. Wright, along with his entire staff, is ready to provide compassionate, confidential treatment.