Gum disease - And Bad breath

Gum disease will certainly add to any halitosis problem that may exist. This is thought to be minimised by the use of an electric toothbrush or plaque remover. Halitosis is especially prevalent in patients with gum disease.  Due to the role of gum disease in halitosis it is imperative that regular dental care is practiced in order to prevent or treat gum disease.  Halitosis is in most cases caused by oral problems such as a built up of plaque on the teeth or by gum disease.

Smokers often have breath as nicotine can build up on the cheeks, tongue and teeth and also as it can lead to gum disease.

Brushing, flossing and regular dental check-ups are the best ways of preventing periodontal gum disease.

A major cause of bad breath is periodontal gum disease which occurs when hydrogen sulphide and other compounds collect in the mouth and damage the gum tissue.  Most of the problem causing bacteria are found either in deep periodontal pockets (found in gum disease), or on the far back portion of the tongue.  If cavities or gum disease are found, it is important to restore health.  If you have long standing, untreated gum disease, then probably your halitosis will vary from severe to very socially unacceptable.

Excessive brushing can also damage the teeth and gums over time.  Periodontal disease is a bacterial infection of the gums and ligaments which support the teeth. 

Signs of periodontitis include red or swollen gums, loose teeth, bleeding gums, pus, pain on chewing.  The specific type of bacteria that causes bad breath and periodontal disease (gum and bone disease) are called Gram-negative anaerobic bacteria.

Normally, the gums wrap closely around the base of the tooth.  If the gums are inflamed, perhaps due to plaque on the teeth, they start to separate away, leaving a tiny pocket between the gum and the tooth.  This leads to bone loss and deep pockets between the teeth and gums which are not easily cleanable.  An essential part of dealing with halitosis is keeping your teeth and gums in good condition.

For most people -- people with reasonably healthy gums -- the tongue is the bigger problem. 

Bleeding gums or gingivitis is a common condition for people who have poor dental hygiene.  Research has shown that the sulphur gases most responsible for halitosis can damage the tissues in your mouth and may lead to periodontitis which is an inflammation of the gums and ligaments supporting the teeth. 

Dental decay at the roots of the teeth may result in abscesses in the gums with foul-smelling, pus giving an objectionable odour to the breath.

Periodontal disease is responsible for one third of halitosis cases.  There are four recognized stages of periodontal disease. 

In cases where periodontal disease is causing the odor, treatment of the disease eliminates the odor.