The odds are good that you or someone you know has suffered from a condition called halitosis at some point. Somewhere from 6-50% of the population has been affected by the embarrassing symptoms, which can cause feelings of anxiety and lead to distressing social stigma. But what is it?
What Is Halitosis?
The word halitosis is derived from Greek and Latin and roughly translates to ‘a condition of the breath.’ Or as we would say, ‘bad breath.’ There are many easy short-term fixes for bad breath, but if you find yourself having recurring problems with bad breath it may be worth seeking treatment.
What Causes Halitosis?
Dental hygiene is the number one factor when it comes to strange odors. At the very least, regular brushing and flossing are necessary to keep bacteria from building up in your mouth. Saliva also plays a crucial role in keeping your teeth clean. People with chronic dry mouth, smokers, and sufferers of sleep apnea are all at a higher risk for halitosis. Bad breath can even point to more serious conditions, such as gum disease. If the spots between your teeth and gums become infected they can produce bad smells, cause you pain, and bleed when brushing or flossing.
How We Can Help
At Alder Trails dental, serving Cypress, TX and the nearby region, we aim to provide our patients with a smile they can be proud of. We can give patients helpful information and strategies and offer routine care to keep your mouth healthy. We’ll begin with a diagnosis of the problem. Depending on the severity and probable causes we might recommend certain mouthwashes or kinds of toothpaste. If we detect any periodontal disease (which typically can’t be resolved by only brushing) we can offer professional teeth cleaning to fix the problem.
Contact Alder Trails Dental
Fill out our online contact form or call Alder Trails Dental at 281-721-9575 to schedule your next appointment today! Even after symptoms of halitosis die down you’ll want to continue with regular checkups to keep everything fresh.
