If Your Breath Stinks, It May Be a Symptom of Gum Disease

Having a bad breath can be embarrassing for anyone. This condition can significantly lower your self-esteem and your social life. There are many causes of bad breath, with poor oral hygiene topping the list. However, there are other causes of bad breath that are hard to tell. For instance, gum disease could be a sign of advanced gum disease. This is why it is important to come in for treatment after noticing this symptom.

Gum Disease And Bad Breath

Bad breath, clinically referred to as halitosis, is a condition caused by the presence of bacteria in your mouth. These bacteria break down the proteins in stuck food particles to produce harmful compounds. These compounds have a bad smell, explaining the stinking breath. When you have gum disease, the condition worsens because it leads to the production of more VSCs.

Research shows that gum disease is the most common cause of halitosis. In fact, up to 80% of patients with bad breath have at least one form of gum infection. This is the case because gums serve as the perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria. Furthermore, the inflamed gum tissues in patients with gum disease act as the source of VSCs production in your mouth. If you have a more advanced form of gum disease, the bad breath will worsen. It is also important to note that halitosis can worsen the state of gum disease or increase the chances of getting it.

As much as gum disease poses a great risk to your oral health, the methods of preventing it are simple. For instance, you can prevent it by maintaining high levels of oral hygiene. You can do this by brushing your teeth at least twice daily and flossing on a regular basis. You should also use mouthwash often. Contact our offices for more information on how gum disease causes bad breath.