by drrapisarda
Most people have experienced bad breath, or halitosis, to some degree in their lives, some more frequently than others. For some, unfortunately, bad breath is something they have to cope with on a daily basis, no matter how often they brush or rinse their mouths with mouthwash. This persistent bad breath can affect every aspect of their lives, from friendships and romantic relationships to professional interactions.
At the cosmetic dentistry practice of Dr. Robert Rapisarda, serving communities throughout greater Boston, bad breath treatment is available to people with chronic halitosis. Imagine never having to worry about bad breath again – ever. The solution may be just a few office visits away.
What Causes Bad Breath?
There are many possible causes of bad breath, some of which are within an individual’s control and others that are far less so. Determining the underlying causes of your halitosis is fundamental to customizing a treatment to your specific needs. The more common causes of chronic bad breath include:
- Medical conditions: Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), diabetes, and heartburn can contribute to bad breath.
- Poor oral hygiene: People who do not brush or floss regularly or properly are particularly susceptible to bad breath.
- Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco can permanently affect the quality of one’s breath, even when the person isn’t actively using tobacco.
- Gum disease: Gum disease is one of the most common causes of bad breath. The more advanced the gum disease, the worse one’s breath is likely to be.
- Certain medications: Antihistamines, blood pressure medications, and antidepressants are just some of the medications that can contribute to chronic bad breath.
- Dentures: Denture wearers are vulnerable to bad breath if they fail to clean their dentures properly or regularly, or if they wear their dentures for too long.
Treating Bad Breath
During a thorough evaluation of your mouth, your medical history, and your lifestyle habits, Dr. Rapisarda will determine the cause or causes of your bad breath and devise a treatment plan accordingly. Part of the treatment of your halitosis may depend on your making changes in your lifestyle, such as avoiding certain foods, quitting smoking, or improving your at-home hygiene regimen. A professional dental cleaning may help to improve your breath, as well.
If you have gum disease or other oral health problems, we can provide treatment that will return your mouth to its optimal state. Root scaling and planing are effective in removing much of the bacteria responsible for gum disease, while treating damaged teeth with dental crowns will help to prevent further infection. Whatever the source of your halitosis, we will create a treatment plan that gives you the healthy mouth and fresh breath you deserve.
Learn More about Bad Breath Treatment
If you suffer from chronic halitosis, we can help you regain your confidence and self-esteem through bad breath treatment. Contact our cosmetic dentistry practice today if you have any questions about the treatment of bad breath or if you would like to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Robert Rapisarda.