Chronic Bad Breath Treatment With Dr. Maria Benefield in Atlanta, GA
Bad breath—also known as halitosis—is more than just embarrassing. It can affect your confidence, relationships, and even signal underlying oral health issues. But here’s the surprising truth: up to 80% of chronic bad breath cases are caused by poor oral hygiene and plaque buildup, especially on the tongue and between teeth.
Call our dental office in Atlanta today at (404) 255-7541 or schedule your appointment online. We proudly welcome patients from Sandy Springs, Dunwoody, Roswell, Buckhead, and nearby communities.
What’s Causing Your Bad Breath? Our Dentist Near Roswell Explains
While occasional bad breath can result from garlic, coffee, or a skipped brushing, chronic halitosis is often due to bacteria buildup in the mouth, particularly in hard-to-reach areas like the back of the tongue or beneath the gumline.
As bacteria feed on food particles, they release sulfur compounds that can produce an unpleasant mouth odor. Over time, poor oral hygiene can also lead to gum disease, tooth decay, and dry mouth—all of which make bad breath worse.
Other Common Contributors to Bad Breath
Even though oral hygiene is the main culprit, a few other factors can worsen halitosis:
- Gum disease – Infected gums harbor odor-causing bacteria and toxins
- Dry mouth – Saliva helps cleanse your mouth; without it, bacteria thrive
- Dental infections or abscesses – Infected teeth or gums emit strong odors
- Tonsil stones – These small calcifications can form in your tonsils and trap bacteria
- Certain medications – Some drugs reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth
- Medical conditions – Digestive issues, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease, or sinus infections may also contribute
If your bad breath lingers despite brushing and flossing, it’s time to consult a dentist near you for a full evaluation.
How to Tell If You Have Chronic Halitosis
Many people don’t realize they have bad breath until someone points it out, or avoids getting too close. Signs to look out for include:
- A persistent bad taste in your mouth
- White or yellow coating on the tongue
- Dry mouth or a sticky feeling
- People offering gum or mints more often than usual
- Bleeding or swollen gums
- Feedback from a loved one or coworker
Bad breath isn’t just a social issue—it’s a warning sign from your body that something needs attention.
How Our Dental Office Near Dunwoody Treats Bad Breath
Dr. Maria Benefield and our hygiene team take a compassionate, non-judgmental approach to treating bad breath. Here’s how we help:
- Thorough cleaning and exam to remove plaque and tartar and check for gum disease
- Periodontal treatment, if necessary, to address infection at the gumline
- Professional tongue cleaning to remove odor-causing bacteria
- Customized hygiene tips and recommendations for tools like tongue scrapers or antibacterial rinses
- Routine and lifestyle changes, such as eating healthy foods and avoiding certain foods, like garlic and onions, that contribute to halitosis
- Dry mouth management, including hydration tips and saliva-boosting products
- Referrals to specialists if a medical condition is suspected
Most patients see a significant improvement in their breath after a professional cleaning and by adopting consistent at-home care. For example, drinking water keeps your mouth moist and prevents the onset of halitosis or bad breath.
Preventing Bad Breath at Home: Dr. Benefield’s Top Tips
You can keep your breath fresh between visits by:
- Brushing twice a day, including your tongue
- Flossing daily to clean between teeth and below the gumline
- Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Avoiding tobacco, which dries the mouth and encourages bacteria
- Using an antimicrobial mouthwash recommended by your dentist
- Seeing your dentist every six months for dental checkups and cleanings
These simple changes can drastically reduce odor-causing bacteria and improve your overall oral health.
Let’s Get to the Bottom of Your Bad Breath—Call Today
If you’re one of the many patients struggling with persistent bad breath, know this: you’re not alone, and it’s treatable. By addressing the root cause and getting dental care, you can enjoy fresh breath, renewed confidence, and better oral health. If your breath smells or you notice a foul odor, it’s time to understand the causes of bad breath so that you can enjoy a healthier, happier life.
Call Cosmetic & General Dentistry at (404) 255-7541 to schedule your appointment with our dentist in Atlanta today. We proudly serve patients in Sandy Springs, Roswell, Dunwoody, Buckhead, and throughout the surrounding Atlanta area.