Does Bad Breath Mean I Have Gum Disease?

Bad breath can be more than just embarrassing, it can be a sign there’s an underlying issue with your gums. Here, we’ll look at what causes bad breath, and when it might be time to see a periodontist in Scottsdale, AZ. 

What to Know About Bad Breath

Sometimes, bad breath is just bad breath. It can happen because you ate the wrong foods, skipped that second glass of water, or just had a bad night’s sleep. You should only worry if it’s happening consistently and without a known cause — or if your dentist mentioned that your gum tissue was inflamed and that you should see a periodontist.

What Causes Gum Disease?

Gum disease and inflammation is largely tied to bacteria and genetic history. If you’re not flossing or brushing properly, bacteria can start at the base of the gums and keep climbing — eventually hitting the bone.

This is just one reason why it’s so important to catch gum disease as early as possible. The longer you wait, the more risk you create for your teeth and jaw. Bad breath is a superficial symptom, but it can be an early warning sign that you should see a professional.

It’s worth noting that some people are more susceptible to gum disease (just like some people are more susceptible to cavities). In addition, the rate of gum disease advancement can vary widely based on the individual. As a a general rule, it’s better to avoid taking chances whenever possible because you may not always fall into the right camp.

Why See a Periodontist?

Gum disease is treatable, and this is true even if it reaches an advanced state. A periodontist can recommend anything from a standard gum cleaning to a gum graft in Scottsdale, AZ, which can help you replace sections of diseased or otherwise irreversibly damaged tissues.

At Dr. Pete N. Mellas, DMD, we can tell you that there’s no way to clear out all bacteria, no matter how well you brush and floss. If you’ve been experiencing more frequent bouts of bad breath, we can evaluate your gums to find out the root cause.