Understanding Root Canal Procedures

Helping Your Spouse Identify Bad Breath Problems

17 September 2015

Diane Mason

If your significant other has a bad breath issue that they haven't addressed, it might be up to you to bring up this tough topic to get them help. Sometimes this might be an oral care or dental issue that they don't even realize is happening. Here are four possible causes of bad breath beyond just everyday brushing and flossing that you may want to have your spouse get checked out. 

1. Tooth Decay If your spouse brushes and flosses regularity but they still have immediate bad breath, they shouldn't just try to further mask this with gum or mints. They may have tooth decay or cavities that are on the sides of or underneath teeth. It is important for everyone to see the dentist at least twice a year and have X-rays taken during exams. This will bring to light hidden cavities and decay that could be causing the problem. 

2. Gum Disease Some plaque cannot be gotten rid of by regular cleanings and needs to be addressed by a dentist. Bacteria can build up and inflame the gums that can slowly affect one's breath. This can cause gum damage and cause bad breath that cannot be alleviated without a visit to the dentist. If gum disease has progressed too far, surgery might be needed to help your spouse get back on track. 

3. Tobacco Use If your spouse either smokes or chews tobacco, over time this can lead to prolonged bad breath. Aside from just having bad breath right after using tobacco, both smoking and chewing tobacco is bad for teeth and gums. Chewing tobacco can eventually lead to gum decay, a breakdown that will cause bad breath. Have your spouse make a dentist appointment to check on damage so far and to offer up ways to kick the bad habit.

4. Sinus Problems and Tonsil Stones Sometimes bad breath is coming from nasal passages or the back of the throat. Sometimes tonsil stones can have a pungent smell and may need to be extracted by a dentist. Sinus problems can lead to a dry mouth or too much mucus coming through the nose and mouth. If your spouse has had sinus or tonsil issues in the past, it is a good idea to get in a checkup and hopefully find the correct procedures or medications to fix this.  It is important to address your spouse's oral health if this is bothering you, but more importantly since this might be a sign of bigger dental or sinus issues. Equipped with information on what might be the culprit, bring this up as calmly as possible. Your spouse can then work with a dentist at a place like HP Family Dental or other specialist if needed to alleviate their bad breath issues and regain control of their oral health. 

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