Bad Breath Treatment

in Boulder, Colorado

Bad Breath – Nothing boosts your self-esteem like a beautiful smile. But even with a beautiful smile, bad breath can be embarrassing and inhibit close interaction with others. Many people use mouthwashes and chewing gum to mask the odor. These solutions are only temporary and do not address the underlying causes of bad breath. Dr. Birnbach's general dentistry office in Boulder, Colorado, provides treatment for people suffering from bad breath.

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be caused by a number of things:

What you eat – Certain foods, such as onions and garlic, contribute to bad breath. Brushing and flossing can temporarily mask your bad breath but the odor from these foods will continue until the food has left your body.
Inadequate dental hygiene – When you eat, particles become lodged between your teeth and collect on the tongue and around the gums. If not removed, these particles can rot, causing odors.
Dry mouth – The condition known as xerostomia, or dry mouth, occurs when your mouth experiences a decrease in the flow of saliva. Saliva plays an essential role in cleansing the mouth and removing food particles that cause bad breath.
Gum disease – Persistent bad breath is one of the primary warning signs of periodontal, or gum disease.
Medical disorders – Bad breath can signal an infection in your nose, throat, or lungs.

Dr. Birnbach can diagnose the cause of your bad breath and help prescribe a treatment plan to correct it. Depending on the cause of your halitosis, Dr Birnbach may suggest:

Hygiene Techniques – Good dental hygiene is the first step in preventing bad breath. During your appointment, Dr. Birnbach will review the steps and techniques essential for a good dental hygiene plan.
Routine Dental Exams – Routine visits are an essential part of your good oral hygiene habits. These visits enable Dr. Birnbach to detect possible causes of bad breath.
Periodontal Care – If your bad breath is caused by gum disease, Dr. Birnbach may recommend periodontal care. Scaling will remove plaque and tartar below the gum-line and root planning will smooth the root surfaces, encouraging reattachment of the gum tissue to the tooth.
Dietary Changes – Dr. Birnbach can identify those foods you are eating that may cause your bad breath and can recommend alternatives. He can also identify dietary habits and behaviors that may alleviate your bad breath.