The Reason why Gum Disease Can Cause Halitosis

Articles on Halitosis | Topic: halitosis

by Fidel Sweet

The definition of periodontal means "around the tooth", therefore this disease affects the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Gum disease (periodontal) includes gingivitis and periodontitis, and is a chronic bacterial infection. Gum disease (periodontal) may affect many teeth or just one tooth. The bacteria in plaque, which is the sticky, colorless film that constantly forms on your teeth, causes the gums to become inflamed, this is the beginning of gum disease (periodontal).

The bacterium found in the average mouth accumulates mostly on a person's tongue towards the back and is one of the causes of bad breath (halitosis). The anaerobic bacteria feed upon the debris left behind by the food and then produce volatile sulfur compounds (vsc). These are then are released by the break down of proteins by bacteria. Volatile Sulfur Compounds have the smell of hydrogen sulfide, and might remind you of the smell of odor of rotten eggs. These sulfur compounds are odorous and lousy tasting. Bad breath (halitosis) odor can also come from certain foods after they are digested and this odor emanates from the lungs.

Certain foods can contribute to bad breath (halitosis). In addition, the lack of proper cleaning of the teeth whether or not gum disease (periodontal) is present can contribute to halitosis. However, after proper oral care has been achieved and you have been careful to monitor the foods you eat and you still find that bad breath (halitosis), odor is present it may be time to consider the possibility that serious gum disease (periodontal) may be present and a contributing source to the odor.

Another contributing source to gum disease (periodontal) would be those who use tobacco products. These individuals are the most significant risk factors in the development and progression of gum disease (periodontal). Despite aggressive oral care habits, these people may be six times more likely to develop gum disease (periodontal) as well as add to the bad breath factor.

The color of healthy comes is coral pink. If your gums have a tinge of red in any degree, they may or may not bleed when you brush or floss. Also, breathing through your mouth tends to contribute to the appearance of red gums. Nevertheless, you should consider the possibility of gum disease (periodontal) and schedule an appointment with your dental provider.

Types of Gum Disease:

Gingivitis is the mildest form of gum disease (periodontal). It causes the gums to become red, swollen, and bleed easily. There is usually little or no discomfort at this stage.

Aggressive Periodontitis is a form of gum disease (periodontal) that occurs in individuals who are otherwise healthy. Common features include rapid attachment loss and bone destruction and familial aggregation.

Chronic Periodontitis is a form of gum disease (periodontal) resulting in inflammation within the supporting tissues of the teeth, progressive attachment and bone loss and is characterized by pocket formation and/or recession of the gingiva. This is recognized as the most frequently occurring form of gum disease (periodontal).

Necrotizing Periodontal Disease is an infection characterized by necrosis of gingival tissues, periodontal ligament and alveolar bone. These lesions are most commonly observed in individuals with systemic conditions including, but not limited to, HIV infection, malnutrition and immunosuppression.

Eight warning signs of gum disease (periodontal):

Gums that bleed when you brush or floss your teeth

Historical Quote

I wish more and more that health were studied half as much as disease is. Why, with all the endowment of research against cancer is no study made of those who are free from cancer? Why not inquire what foods they eat, what habits of body and mind they cultivate? And why never study animals in health and natural surroundings? why always sickened and in an environment of strangeness and artificiality?

—Sarah N. Cleghorn (1976–1959)

Gums that are red, swollen or tender

Gums that have pulled away from teeth

Infection including purulence (pus) between the teeth and gums when the gums are pressed

Permanent teeth that are loose or separating

Any changes in the way your teeth fit together when you bite

Any changes in the fit of your partial denture

Halitosis, itchy sensation

If you are experiencing any or all of these symptoms it is important that you contact your health care provider or dental professional.

Protecting your periodontal health brings many benefits. You can chew with more comfort. You can smile and speak with greater confidence. You lessen the chances of experiencing bad breath. You can keep dental costs down by preventing further problems. A commitment to maintenance therapy is a commitment to better health and fresher smelling breath. Your friends, co-workers, and family will thank you!

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Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "The Reason why Gum Disease Can Cause Halitosis" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by HealthExerciseSports.com.

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