Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations
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Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations

Dental implants can make a smile look fabulous – I know I have them. However, if you are just thinking about getting them, you may have a lot of questions. You may be wondering how smoking affects implants, whether or not wine will stain them, if they can be whitened or other concerns. I also know from experience that it can be intimidating to ask some of these questions to your dentist. In my dental implant blog, I am going to answer the questions that can be hard to ask. I hope you find the info you need in this blog and that it guides you to the right decision about dental implants. Thanks for reading!

Dental Implants: Stains, Whitenings and Other Considerations

4 Causes of Bad Breath

Isobel Berry

Dental problems are one of the most common causes of bad breath. Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and negatively affect your social life. If you're experiencing bad breath, it's essential to visit your dentist and find out what's causing it. Here is a guide to four dental issues that can cause bad breath.

1. Tooth Decay

Tooth decay is a common cause of bad breath that happens when food particles get trapped in the grooves or fissures of your teeth, especially at the back. As bacteria on these bits of food decompose, they release odorous substances called volatile sulphur compounds, which have a strong smell and can be one of the leading causes of bad breath. Tooth decay not only causes bad breath but can also lead to toothaches and even tooth loss if left untreated over time. See your dentist for regular check-ups so you can remove any decaying teeth before they affect your overall dental health.

2. Dental Plaque

Dental plaque is a sticky film that forms on your teeth from saliva and bacteria found in your mouth. It's can lead to tooth decay and bad breath when bacteria from plaque produce acids that can lead to cavities. In addition, if you have braces, plaque attacks the brackets and wires, leading to a build-up called plaque biofilm. Brushing your teeth regularly, flossing and visiting your dentist for regular cleanings will remove dental plaque before it becomes a problem.

3. Dry Mouth

Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia or salivary gland hypofunction, can cause bad breath. When the mouth doesn't produce enough saliva, it leads to a build-up of germs that cause gum disease and tooth decay, which in turn causes bad breath. This is especially true if you wear dentures or braces because those items can trap bacteria in locations where the little saliva your mouth produces cannot wash it away. A prescription for artificial saliva from your dentist can help keep dry mouth at bay so you won't experience as much bad breath.

4. Gum Disease

Gum disease causes bad breath in the same way it causes dental plaque. As gum disease worsens, the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets where bacteria can fester and lead to a foul odour. If you have any signs of gum disease, such as bleeding or tender gums or receding gums, make an appointment with your dentist right away because early treatment is key to stopping its progression before it leads to chronic bad breath.

For more info, contact your dentist today.


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