Halitosis – Bad Breath Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Halitosis is sophisticated word for “bad breath”. Depending on the cause, bad breath may strike on occasion or be a persistent condition. The most common cause of bad breath is bacteria. Because the mouth is moist and warm, it creates perfect conditions for the millions of bacteria that live in the mouth. In fact, approximately 80% of bad breath is caused by something in the mouth.
Some types of bad breath, such as “morning mouth,” are considered fairly normal and are not usually health concerns. However, persistent bad breath may be a sign of more serious problems with the gums and teeth.
Bad breath may be caused by the following:
– Poor dental hygiene poor oral hygiene can leave food particles to decay in the mouth
– Infections in the mouth such as periodontal (gum) disease
– Respiratory-tract infections such as throat infections, sinus infections, lung infections
– External agents including foods such as garlic, onions, and coffee, as well as cigarettes and chewing tobacco
– Dry mouth caused by salivary gland problems or by breathing through the mouth
– Systemic illnesses such as diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, sinus disease, reflux disease and others
Call our office promptly if you have bad breath with painful, swollen gums that bleed easily or loose teeth. We will perform a physical examination of your mouth to determine the cause. If we discover that systematic problems are the cause, we may refer you to your family physician. In severe cases of gum disease, we may recommend a specialized periodontist.
WE SERVE ALL SAN DIEGO COUNTY CUSTOMERS
Alpine • Bonita • Borrego Springs • Campo • Cardiff-by-the-Sea • Carlsbad • Chula Vista • Coronado Island • Del Mar • El Cajon • Encinitas • Escondido • Fallbrook • Imperial Beach • Jamul • Julian • La Mesa • Lakeside • Lemon Grove • National City • Oceanside • Poway • San Marcos • Santee • Solana Beach • Vista
Pablo I. –
Always been a great experience since 1970! Thank you Dr. McCleave and staff!
Tonny L. –
Pleasant *Friendly *Professional *Treated well *Respected *Questions answered when I asked them *Teeth cleaning looks very good *Almost no pain
Ricardo L. –
Always an exceptional experience, of quality work & service. Plus being fabulous personnel. Thanks again.
Noel Y. –
The dental hygienist was thorough and informative. She did a great job cleaning my teeth. The whole office also did a great job with my young son.
Mike A. –
Excellent dental office !! Courteous & very professional. Highly recommend this dental office. Kudos to all staff!!
Lima C. –
Office has updated equipment and staff is knowledgable and courteous. When an emergency arises, they are able to fit you in to correct it.
Roberto B. –
Awesome office! Dr.Aris it very professional and gentle. They are always curtious, and willing to fit me in short notice. The receptionist penny is a peach and the perfect employee. She is always sweet and understanding with a great sense of humor, that I bet she gave to her awesome children….particularly the middle one….Sandy is pretty great too.
Anastasia B
Kevin G. –
I have been going to this dental site for over 50 years. I have always received excellent dental care. The dentists and other staff have changed over the years and the office has been updated but the same quality of care has always been there. Everyone is always friendly and helpful and you feel very welcom when you walk through the door. I would recommend this office to everyone.
Rajer T. –
Dr mc cleave is mY fave dentist for past 35years Pain free,fun office My teeth sure r greatful for his expertise
Nancy R. –
I don’t actually live in La Mesa anymore, but I always have such a good experience at this office that it’s worth the drive for me. My teeth always feel squeaky clean and amazing afterward, and the staff is always able to answer any questions I have.
Peggy S. –
I’m new to this office. I read the reviews before I decided to make my appointment. the staff is just so kind and so helpful. I was made to feel like ode been part of this office long term. My experience with Dr Aras has been wonderful. He’s very informative without “selling” you on future care. He has great advice and I have found my new dentist and his crew!
Maciel B. –
Always a great process from appointment setting, to appointment confirmation/updates. In my 7 years of going never had to wait more than a few minutes to be called in for my cleanings. Have had a few fillings and an emergency chipped tooth that they took me in same day. Best dentist office I’ve experienced and will always my business and referrals. All the staff is amazing and I always look forward to my cleanings with Richard as well.