Monroe NC dentist Dr. Leonard Hess practices the Dawson Academy principles of complete dentistry. That means he takes into consideration all aspects of your overall health and oral health to provide comprehensive care. Looking beyond just the teeth, he understands that to have a beautiful smile, you must have a functional and healthy oral foundation. So when a patient comes to us with a concern like halitosis, Dr. Hess looks to find the root of the problem. Chronic halitosis can often be a sign of more complex oral health concerns and should be addressed by Dr. Hess as soon as possible.
Chronic halitosis is not the same as bad morning breath. If you wake up with a bad taste in your mouth, or have bad breath after eating onions or drinking coffee, you most likely have no reason to worry. Chronic halitosis is the presence of an odor and or taste in your mouth that is persistent despite diligent oral hygiene practices.
There are several causes for halitosis. Some are oral health related and others may be systemic health concerns. Dr. Hess will perform a comprehensive oral exam to determine if the cause is related to your teeth or gums. If your mouth appears to be in good health, he may refer you to your general physician for diagnosis.
Oral Health Concerns & Halitosis
- Gum Disease- Gum disease is a common and advanced dental condition. Gum disease is a bacterial infection that will progress if left untreated. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss, bone deterioration and even systemic health concerns. If your halitosis is persistent it may be a sign you have gum disease.
- Dry Mouth- Dry mouth is caused by a lack of saliva production. This can occur due to certain medical conditions, medications or dehydration. It is important to keep your mouth moist. Saliva helps to keep your teeth and gums clean. If your halitosis is caused by dry mouth you can try drinking more water, or chewing sugar free ADA approved gum to stimulate saliva production.
- Tooth Decay- If you are experiencing advanced tooth decay, you may have a lingering taste and smell in your mouth. The bacteria that causes the decay can leave behind a smelly by product. If you feel tenderness or sensitivity in a tooth and have a persistent odor, be sure to schedule an appointment with our Monroe dentist office. Treating tooth decay early can avoid the need for more complex dental procedures such as a root canal or tooth extraction.