Does Bad Breath Mean You Have Gum Disease?

Periodontal disease goes through many stages, is known by many names, and produces many symptoms to warn you of its presence. Bleeding gums are a common sign, but since they don’t hurt, they can be fairly easy to overlook for some patients. Chronic bad breath, however, is a bit more difficult to ignore, since other people can often notice it as much as you can. When your breath is less-than-stellar due to the presence of gum disease, no mint or stick of chewing gum can offer you a solution. On the contrary, you might require the expertise of a specialist to treat your gum disease before seeing any improvement in your bad breath.

First Step: A Checkup

If your breath smells a little bad every time you wake up in the morning, don’t panic. Morning breath is common, and occurs because your salivary glands produce much less saliva when you sleep. In the drier environment, oral bacteria flourish, and by the time you wake up, your breath may wreak of them. Chronic bad breath means it doesn’t go away after eating breakfast and brushing your teeth, and can occur for a wide variety of reasons. A dental checkup will allow your dentist to determine the cause of your situation, and if periodontal disease is present, you may be referred to a periodontist for specialized treatment.

Rid Your Mouth of Bad Influences

Periodontal disease is an infection in the soft gingival tissue that surrounds the roots of your teeth. As bacteria gather along your gum line, some release toxins that cause the tissue breakdown, creating pockets for the germs to hide between your teeth and periodontal tissue. Treating the disease, and ridding your mouth of bad breath, requires removing the bacterial colonies from underneath your gums, especially along the surfaces of your teeth’s roots. During periodontal treatment, Dr. Kania will meticulously clean and smooth the root surfaces to discourage future pathogenic bacteria buildup.

About Your San Diego Periodontist:

As a board-certified periodontist, Dr. Ann Kania is specially qualified to diagnose and treat issues concerning periodontal tissue and the supportive structures of a patient’s smile, as well as place dental implants for patients with missing teeth. She also takes joy in helping patients quit their smoking and smokeless tobacco habits to improve their oral and overall health. To seek Dr. Kania’s help and expertise, visit our office or contact us today at (760) 642-0711.