Periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is one of the most common causes of bad breath. As bacteria develop in the pockets they make in the gums, they feed on food particles and produce foul-smelling gases. Although older individuals have higher risks of gum disease and the halitosis that results, younger patients may also need treatment from our dentist in Holly Springs to resolve this issue.
The bacteria that cause periodontal disease gradually destroy the gums and other tissues that support the teeth. While bleeding and inflammation may occur early in the disease, tooth loss and serious infections can result if the disease is left untreated. Eventually, sufferers may experience deterioration of their jaw bones and facial appearance. If the bacteria enter the blood stream through the diseased gums, they can increase systemic inflammation and risks of heart attack and stroke.
Odors caused by oral bacteria that cause periodontal disease often resemble the sulfurous smell of rotten eggs. In many cases, these bacterial populations correlate with the extent of odoriferous coatings on the teeth and tongue of gum disease sufferers. Over time, this coating can become impossible to clean without professional instruments and techniques.
Our expert in periodontics in Holly Springs may recommend antimicrobial rinses, scaling and root planing, periodontal surgery, or a combination of treatments to reverse gum disease and the halitosis it causes. At a consultation with Dr. Connie Feng at Twin Leaf Dentistry, patients can learn more about the connection between periodontal disease and bad breath.