Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. One of the more serious underlying causes of bad breath is periodontal disease, an infection of the tissues that support the teeth. If left untreated, periodontal disease can not only lead to persistent bad breath but also to tooth loss and other serious oral health issues.
This article will explain in detail how to get rid of bad breath caused by periodontal disease, why it happens, and the steps you can take to improve your breath and overall oral health.
What Is Periodontal Disease?
Periodontal disease, also referred to as gum disease, involves an infection of the gums and surrounding tissues. It starts with plaque buildup on the teeth and gums, which can lead to gingivitis (the mildest form of gum disease) and, if untreated, progresses to periodontitis (the more severe form). In periodontitis, the infection spreads deeper into the gums and bone structures that support the teeth.
Bad breath is a hallmark symptom of periodontal disease. The bacteria in the mouth break down food particles and release sulfur compounds that cause an unpleasant odor. The more advanced the periodontal disease, the worse the bad breath will likely become. This type of bad breath is often persistent and does not go away with regular brushing or mouthwash.
Why Does Periodontal Disease Cause Bad Breath?
Bad breath from periodontal disease is primarily caused by the bacteria that accumulate in the spaces between the gums and teeth.
These bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) which are responsible for the foul odor. The more plaque and tartar build-up around the teeth and gums, the more bacteria can thrive in these areas.
There are several specific reasons why periodontal disease leads to bad breath:
Bacterial Growth in the Gum Pockets: When gum disease progresses, it creates pockets between the teeth and gums where bacteria can accumulate. These pockets trap food particles and bacteria, making it difficult to remove them even with brushing or flossing. As bacteria break down these particles, they emit sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.
Inflammation and Infection: In advanced stages of periodontal disease, the gums become inflamed and infected. This inflammation causes an increase in bacteria and pus, both of which contribute to foul-smelling breath.
Tartar Build-Up: Tartar, also known as calculus, is hardened plaque that cannot be removed by brushing alone. Tartar provides a rough surface where bacteria can easily adhere, worsening the condition of the gums and contributing to halitosis.
Abscesses and Pus: In severe cases, abscesses can form in the gums or around the tooth root. These abscesses can leak pus, which contributes to a strong, unpleasant odor.
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath from Periodontal Disease
1. Visit Your Dentist for Professional Cleaning
The first step in eliminating bad breath caused by periodontal disease is to visit a dentist for a thorough cleaning. The dentist or dental hygienist will remove the tartar and plaque that have built up around your teeth and gums, cleaning areas that are difficult to reach with regular brushing. This professional cleaning is essential for reducing the number of bacteria in your mouth and improving your breath.
If your periodontal disease is advanced, your dentist may recommend a deep cleaning treatment known as scaling and root planing. This procedure involves cleaning the surfaces of the roots of your teeth to remove bacteria and tartar from below the gumline.
2. Practice Proper Oral Hygiene
Good oral hygiene is the cornerstone of preventing and treating bad breath caused by periodontal disease. You should brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Be sure to brush along the gumline, where bacteria are most likely to accumulate. Using a soft-bristled toothbrush will help to avoid injuring the gums.
In addition to brushing, flossing at least once a day is crucial. Flossing removes food particles and plaque from between the teeth, areas that a toothbrush can’t reach. If you find traditional floss difficult to use, there are floss picks and water flossers available that can make this task easier.
3. Use Antibacterial Mouthwash
An antibacterial mouthwash can help to reduce the bacteria in your mouth, which in turn reduces the production of sulfur compounds.
Mouthwashes that contain chlorhexidine, cetylpyridinium chloride, or essential oils (such as eucalyptus or tea tree oil) are particularly effective at controlling the bacteria that contribute to periodontal disease and bad breath.
Be sure to use mouthwash as directed, and avoid using it excessively, as some mouthwashes can cause dry mouth if used too often.
4. Control Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a condition where the mouth does not produce enough saliva. Saliva plays an important role in neutralizing acids and washing away food particles and bacteria from the mouth. If you have dry mouth, you may experience more bad breath, especially in the morning.
To help control dry mouth, drink plenty of water throughout the day. Chewing sugar-free gum can also stimulate saliva production, and using a saliva substitute if recommended by your dentist can help keep your mouth moist.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking and other tobacco use contribute to bad breath and exacerbate periodontal disease. Tobacco products dry out the mouth, reduce blood flow to the gums, and increase the number of harmful bacteria in the mouth. Quitting smoking not only improves your breath but also helps to prevent the progression of periodontal disease.
6. Eat a Healthy Diet
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can help improve your oral health and reduce the severity of periodontal disease. Foods rich in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits and leafy vegetables, can promote gum health and reduce inflammation. Crunchy vegetables like carrots and celery also help to remove plaque from teeth and freshen your breath.
In addition, avoid excessive sugary or acidic foods, as they can feed the bacteria that contribute to plaque and bad breath.
7. Get Treatment for Periodontal Disease
If your periodontal disease has progressed beyond the point where at-home care can control it, it’s essential to seek professional treatment.
Treatment options for periodontal disease may include:
Scaling and Root Planing: A deep cleaning procedure that removes plaque and tartar from beneath the gumline.
Antibiotics: In some cases, your dentist may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to help control infection.
Surgical Options: In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove damaged gum tissue or to restore the health of the gums and bones.
Your dentist or periodontist will be able to assess the severity of your condition and recommend the best treatment plan.
8. Regular Dental Checkups
To keep periodontal disease and bad breath under control, it’s important to maintain regular dental checkups. These visits allow your dentist to monitor your gum health, detect any early signs of periodontal disease, and provide professional cleanings that help prevent bacteria buildup.
Conclusion
Bad breath caused by periodontal disease can be persistent and unpleasant, but with the right care, it is manageable. The key to addressing bad breath from gum disease is to reduce the bacterial load in your mouth, improve your oral hygiene routine, and seek professional treatment if necessary. By following these steps, you can significantly improve your breath and your overall oral health.
Remember, periodontal disease is a progressive condition, and early intervention is crucial. If you notice symptoms like swollen gums, bleeding when brushing or flossing, or persistent bad breath, it’s important to seek treatment from a dentist as soon as possible. With proper care and professional guidance, you can achieve fresher breath and healthier gums, ensuring a more confident smile and better overall well-being.
