Is Bad Breath a Sign of Gum Infection?

Gum infections can have several symptoms, including bleeding gums, pus around the gums and pain in the gums. Severe gum infections can also make it nearly impossible to eat. But, did you know that bad breath can also be a sign of gum infection?

Bad breath can be the sign of several oral problems, such as gingivitis. The bacteria that cause gingivitis can make the breath smell quite foul, when it is not removed properly or regularly. But, an infection in the mouth, just like anywhere else in the body, can have a nasty odor, too.

If your bad breath is caused by gingivitis or just generally poor oral hygiene, brush your teeth thoroughly, including your tongue and then rinse with an anti-bacterial mouthwash. That should take care of the bad breath, provided you perform that routine regularly.

But, if your bad breath is not diminished with brushing and rinsing, or it comes back almost immediately, it may be the sign of an infection. Look for other infection signs, as mentioned above. If you believe you have a gum infection, schedule a visit to the dentist. Use rinses with warm salt water or hydrogen peroxide in the interim to relieve the symptoms and begin the healing process. Your dentist may prescribe antibiotics to get rid of the infection.

Many people suffer from chronic bad breath without having a gum infection. This usually means they need to improve their oral hygiene routine and rid their mouths of more bacteria daily.

The bacteria in your mouth cause gingivitis, but when gingivitis is not treated, it turns to periodontal disease. Periodontal disease causes receding gums, which can lead to gum infections, and even a loss of teeth. Once gums recede, the only way to bring them back is through oral surgery.

As you can see, bacteria cause all of the major problems in our mouths. So, it’s critical that we get a handle on ridding our mouths of it as quickly as possible, and as regularly as possible.

Don’t neglect your oral hygiene routine. Brush (including your tongue) at least twice a day, and floss at least once. Rinse regularly with antibacterial mouthwash and visit your dentist for cleanings twice a year. Not only will this routine prevent serious problems like gum infections, loose teeth and mouth pain, but it should just take care of that bad breath problem, too.