Bad breath is embarrassing and worse, you may not even realize you have it until someone else points it out. But did you know that your bad breath may be a sign of a more complex condition? Woodbridge, VA dentist Dr. Joseph Cavallo stresses the importance of addressing any changes in your oral health as soon as possible for conservative and effective treatment.
Bad breath that can be washed away with a thorough brush and floss is generally not of any concern. Normally caused by pungent food or sleeping with your mouth open, occasional halitosis is normal. With a proper oral hygiene routine, this type of bad breath will likely not cause any further damage to your teeth or gums.
Halitosis & The Oral Body Connection
However, if you are experiencing chronic halitosis that is persistent even with your regular oral hygiene routine, it may be a symptom of another medical condition. Oral health and systemic health are directly related, and problems with one can cause secondary conditions. Halitosis could be an indicator that you have liver or kidney conditions, gastrointestinal problems, sinus infections, or acid reflux. Noticing a shift in your normal oral health could be a signifier that you have developed another health concern. If your halitosis is not related to any oral health condition, Dr. Cavallo will recommend visiting your general physician.
Most halitosis cases can be traced back to oral health concerns. Tooth decay, gum disease, and dry mouth could be the culprit behind your chronically bad breath. Biannual dental visits can help keep your oral health in check. Early diagnosis of any dental health concern helps Dr. Cavallo provide conservative and effective treatment without the need for advanced procedures such as a root canal or tooth extraction.
Schedule A Consultation
Schedule your yearly dental appointments with our Woodbridge dentist office. Dr. Cavallo provides a full range of cosmetic, restorative and general dentistry treatments for your optimal oral health. Regular wellness visits to the dentist office allow for early diagnosis for conservative dental care. Contact our Northern VA dentist office to schedule your appointment.
