Bad breath, also referred to as halitosis is an unwanted condition that no person wants to face. In many cases, we may not realize that we have bad breath and although it is not uncommon from time to time, when it becomes persistent, you must determine its cause. Identifying the cause of your bad breath will require you to keep records of what you consume, review your current medications, recent surgeries, and health history with your dentist. Bad breath can be attributed to various factors such as your diet, oral hygiene routine, or tobacco use. It is also important to brush your tongue to prevent bad breath in addition to your teeth. Your dentist will provide you with more information regarding how you can reduce bad breath and prevent it.
Brushing twice daily and flossing once daily is a general recommendation. When you are brushing and flossing regularly it controls plaque and bacteria in your mouth that can contribute to periodontal disease. Brushing your teeth removes plaque from the front and back surfaces whereas flossing removes plaque between your teeth and beneath your gums. Both of these oral hygiene practices are integral to maintain your oral health and prevent issues from developing.
More often than not, patients are not aware that they have gum disease. This is due to the fact that gum disease is almost always pain-free during the early stages. It is possible to have periodontal disease without experiencing symptoms. For this reason, dental check-ups and periodontal examinations are vital to detecting dental issues, especially periodontal problems.
Some of the signs and symptoms of periodontal disease include:
- Newly formed gaps between your teeth
- Teeth that have loosened
- Pus surrounding your teeth and gums
- Gums that are red or puffy
- Gums that bleed
- Bad breath that becomes an ongoing issue
Cosmetic dentistry has become increasingly popular over time. More and more patients have taken an interest in improving the appearance of their smile through cosmetic dentistry. Whether you are looking to restore one tooth or would like a complete smile transformation, your dentist can provide you with the following procedures.
- Teeth whitening
- Dental implants
- Composite (tooth-coloured) fillings
- Porcelain veneers
- Porcelain crowns
- Orthodontics
Over time, the outer layer of our tooth enamel deteriorates and this reveals a dark or yellow shade. Lifestyle factors can also play a part in tooth discolouration. For example, drinking coffee, tea or red wine, and tobacco use. Yellow or discoloured teeth are considered the top aesthetic concern of many patients. Not only is teeth whitening considered a simple and non-invasive treatment but it can dramatically change the colour of your teeth. You can schedule a consultation with your dentist to discuss teeth whitening further.