Halitosis

Bad breath can be embarrassing, but it’s also a potential sign of an underlying oral health condition that needs attention. At Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces, with five offices in San Antonio and Helotes, Texas, the team of general and family dentists works with you to determine the underlying cause of persistent bad breath (halitosis) and develop an effective treatment plan. Call the nearest office or request an appointment online today to learn more.

Is halitosis just bad breath?

Halitosis is more than just bad breath. It’s often a sign of an underlying oral health condition that needs treatment. While everybody experiences bad breath from time to time, it’s usually not long-lasting. Halitosis typically doesn’t resolve with brushing your teeth, using mouthwash, or chewing breath mints.

At Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces, the team uses state-of-the-art technology to diagnose and treat halitosis, ensuring patients receive comprehensive care for this potentially embarrassing condition.

What causes halitosis?

Many foods like garlic, onions, and coffee can cause temporary causes of bad breath. More long-term causes of halitosis include:

• Tooth decay (cavities)
• Gum disease
• Infected teeth or abscesses
• Dry mouth
• Medical conditions (e.g., sinusitis, diabetes, liver/kidney disease)

After a comprehensive dental exam, your dentist can determine the underlying cause of halitosis and recommend a personalized treatment.

How do I know if I have halitosis?

A few simple tests can help determine whether you have bad breath or halitosis:

The wrist test

Lick your wrist, let it dry for a few seconds, and then smell it. If it smells off, you may have halitosis.

Check your tongue

The tongue can hold bacteria and contribute to bad breath. Use a tongue scraper to gently scrape your tongue, and then smell the residue.

Smell your dental floss

After flossing between your teeth, smell the used floss. If it has an unpleasant odor, it may be an indication of bacterial buildup.

Check for dry mouth

Saliva helps clean the mouth, and a lack of saliva can contribute to bad breath. If your mouth feels consistently dry, it may be a factor.

Visit your dentist

If you're concerned about halitosis, schedule a dental checkup at Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces. The team can assess your oral health and identify any underlying issues contributing to bad breath.

What are the treatment options for halitosis?

The best treatment for halitosis depends on the cause. After determining the underlying cause of your bad breath, the Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces team may recommend:

• Thorough brushing and flossing
• Tongue cleaning
• Regular cleanings to remove plaque and tartar buildup
• Treatment of cavities, gum disease, or other dental problems
• Antibacterial mouthwashes or rinses
• Drinking plenty of water
• Chewing sugar-free gum
• Avoiding strong-smelling foods
• Quitting smoking or tobacco use
• Addressing any medical conditions contributing to bad breath

Smile Structure Dentistry and Braces can develop a personalized treatment plan that keeps your breath fresh and bacteria-free. Call the nearest office or request an appointment online today to learn more.