Bad breath: causes and treatment of halitosis | Sana Oris Dental Clinic, Paris 8

Bad breath or halitosis

Halitosis is the scientific name for bad breath. While it is not a major health problem, it can be a real handicap in everyday life or indicate a more serious oral health condition.

Symptoms of persistent bad breath

The main symptom of halitosis is persistent bad breath despite brushing your teeth.

However, some people do not realize they have bad breath because their sense of smell has become accustomed to the odor.

The causes of bad breath or halitosis

There are various causes of halitosis. Among the most common are:

  • regular consumption of certain foods, such as garlic, which promotes the production of volatile compounds responsible for odors
  • poor oral hygiene leading to a buildup of bacteria in the spaces between the teeth and on the tongue
  • an oral infection
  • a dry mouth
  • alcohol consumption
  • tobacco
  • hormonal fluctuations
  • the use of certain medications that affect saliva composition and protein breakdown

In both children and adults, bad breath can be exacerbated by the proliferation of bacteria in the oral cavity or on the tongue. Inadequate cleaning of the tongue can be an underestimated cause of halitosis.

Certain medical conditions can also cause halitosis. These include diabetic ketoacidosis, liver failure, kidney failure, and certain types of cancer.

To effectively treat bad breath, it is necessary to clearly identify the cause. Treatment may then focus on improving tooth brushing and flossing techniques, or addressing more underlying causes.

Treatments to reduce bad breath

The treatment of halitosis is primarily based on good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups, the use of dental floss to clean between teeth, and appropriate care to limit the proliferation of bacteria responsible for the breakdown of proteins in the mouth. Good to know: gently brushing your tongue is just as important as brushing your teeth. This is because the tongue can be a breeding ground for the bacteria responsible for bad breath.

In general, adopting a healthy lifestyle is a good way to prevent halitosis. In particular, limiting or even stopping tobacco and alcohol consumption. Drinking enough water is essential to prevent dry mouth and promote good hydration of the oral cavity.
If halitosis is caused by a bacterial infection of your gums, it is necessary to treat the periodontal disease.

The first step is to conduct a periodontal assessment to evaluate your periodontal health. It is carried out as follows:

  • The interview phase to learn about your history, habits, and risk factors;
  • The clinical oral and gum examination, which is both aesthetic and functional, consists of assessing the health of the mouth by examining
  • the condition of the teeth, gums, and surrounding tissues, while taking into account the harmony and aesthetics of the smile;
  • Microscopic examination of dental plaque, which will be examined and interpreted immediately to identify any pathogenic bacteria present in the mouth that may be contributing to halitosis.
  • ;

  • A report will be provided in the coming days to inform you about the treatment and its cost.

Halitosis is often caused by silent periodontal diseases, particularly periodontitis. It is therefore necessary to treat these conditions in order to get rid of bad breath. A healthcare professional, such as a doctor or dentist, may also recommend treatments for gastroesophageal reflux or other chronic medical conditions if these contribute to the odor. Treatment for halitosis primarily relies on good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups.

In cases of halitosis attributable to one of the above causes, treating the infection or eliminating certain habits (smoking, alcohol) can reduce or eliminate bad breath.

If halitosis is caused by a bacterial infection of your gums, it is necessary to treat the periodontal disease.

The first step is to conduct a periodontal assessment to evaluate your periodontal health. It is carried out as follows:

  • The interview phase to learn about your history, habits, and risk factors;
  • Clinical examination of oral and gum aesthetics and function;
  • Microscopic examination of dental plaque, which will be examined and interpreted immediately to identify any pathogenic bacteria that may be contributing to halitosis;
  • A report will be provided in the coming days to inform you about the treatment and its cost.

Halitosis is often caused by silent periodontal diseases, particularly periodontitis. It is therefore necessary to treat these conditions in order to get rid of bad breath.

Treatment results

The treatment of halitosis varies depending on its cause, and the quality of the result depends on accurately identifying that cause. Good oral hygiene helps to limit the occurrence of bad breath, and regular check-ups help to control it by ensuring the overall health of the periodontium.

We will welcome you with comprehensive care, identifying the causes of halitosis, which are often linked to the presence of bacteria in the mouth that cause bad odors. Our expertise in periodontics ensures you receive a reliable diagnosis, capable of detecting any oral diseases, and effective treatment, carried out by our dental surgeons.

The cost of treatment

The price set by your dentist depends on the condition or habits causing halitosis. You will be informed of this price after your initial consultation.

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