What Bad Breath Indicates about Your Health

Bad breath may be hampering your social life, but it could also be an important indicator of your overall health. Chronic bad breath may indicate the presence of periodontal disease, which can increase your risk of numerous health conditions. Sweet or fruity scented breath may indicate the presence of diabetes.

New devices are also currently being developed to analyze your breath for compounds that indicate the presence of other problems. These chemical sensors are similar to Breathalyzers, which can be used to detect blood alcohol levels, but they use far more precise, advanced medical technology. These e-noses, as they are commonly called, may eventually be able to detect nitric oxide, ammonia and acetone, which can all be markers of disease.

While you may have little control over these breath issues, you do have control over most breath problems. Brushing twice daily, flossing daily and using antimicrobial mouth rinse can help eliminate plaque and bacteria, the presence of which can increase your risk for developing gum disease. If you have chronic dry mouth, chewing gum, sucking on sugar-free candy or regularly sipping water may be able to alleviate the discomfort and bad breath associated with the condition.

Chronic bad breath can be an embarrassment. Our Los Angeles dentist can help. If you continue to have problems with bad breath after stepping up your dental hygiene regimen, give us a call. Our dentist will perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine the source and recommend treatments to address your condition.