Bad Breath
Dr. Carol Jin has helped dental patients of all ages who suffer from halitosis, or what is commonly referred to as bad breath. We believe in a comprehensive approach to curing halitosis. Our treatment plans include a combination of regular oral examinations to pinpoint the cause of a patient’s bad breath, deep cleanings to prevent reoccurrences, and creating personal routines that promote ongoing oral health. With an office conveniently located in San Ramon, California, Dr.Carol Jin and our staff diagnose, treat and help our patients to maintain a fresh and friendly smile free of aggravating and embarrassing bad breath issues.
Common Causes of Chronic Bad Breath or “Halitosis”
Dr. Carol Jin and her dental partners provide patients suffering from halitosis with a thorough oral examination to identify the cause of their chronic bad breath. Halitosis can be the result of one of more of these oral health issues:
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay (cavities)
- Missing Teeth
- Oral yeast infections
- Dry mouth (xerostomia)
- Plaque or bacteria from food remaining in the mouth
- Use of tobacco products
Halitosis may also be a sign of medical conditions, such as:
- Stomach viruses
- Acid reflux
- Respiratory tract infections
- Chronic sinusitis
- Postnasal drip
- Chronic bronchitis
- Diabetes
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Liver or kidney disease
Bad breath may also be caused by the use of certain prescription and over the counter medications, including some antihistamines, decongestants, antidepressants, antipsychotics, narcotics, anti-Parkinsons drugs, and central nervous system agents.
Tips to Reduce Persistent Bad Breath
Brushing your teeth and tongue for two minutes twice a day, along with the use of dental floss is the best way to reduce halitosis and the risk of gum disease. This daily routine removes food particles that would otherwise remain in your mouth, decaying and causing the growth of bacteria that contributes to halitosis. During your routine examination at our San Ramon dental office, you will learn the proper techniques for brushing and flossing your teeth from Dr. Carol Jin’s oral health care specialists. These simple daily habits will effectively prevent bad breath and help you to avoid costly complex dental procedures.
Our staff of dental professionals also educates patients who smoke or chew tobacco-based products about the oral health problems it can cause, including halitosis, stained teeth, and gum irritation. In addition to preventing respiratory illnesses, smoking cessation will also help to reduce persistent bad breath.
Prevention and Treatment Options for Bad Breath
Preventative dentistry is crucial to eliminating bad breath and maintaining a healthy mouth. Taking care of your teeth, and early detection will help prevent the need for costly treatments, and in some cases, it can save your life. Dr. Carol Jin’s preventative dental care program includes a routine six-month oral examination and professional cleaning in our San Ramon office.
To diagnose the specific cause of your halitosis, we will perform an oral cancer screening, a gum and bone disease examination, digital x-rays and imaging with our state-of-the-art intra oral camera. Dr. Jin and our staff of dental hygienists will interview you to learn about your medical history, discuss medications you are currently taking, and determine if there are other symptoms that could indicate deeper medical problems. In the event that she determines that your halitosis is due to a non-oral health issue, Dr. Jin will provide your primary care physician with the information they need to treat you.
If your case of chronic bad breath is caused by oral disease, Dr. Carol Jin will create a treatment plan that will cure the halitosis and prevent future occurrences. Oral treatment options for halitosis include:
- Routine in-depth oral cleanings
- Gum treatments
- Filling cavities
- Antibiotics to treat oral infections
- Tooth replacement options, such as dental implants
- Prescription of Zytex or antimicrobial mouth rinses, such as chlorhexidine
Let Us Assist You With Treatments for Chronic Bad Breath
Dr. Carol Jin offers a variety of affordable dental care services with several payment options. We accept most major dental insurance and honor senior citizen discounts. Dr. Carol Jin’s dental practice provides San Ramon and San Francisco Bay-area residents with professional halitosis treatment and preventative care. Our dental staff will take time to listen to your needs and explain the treatments for chronic bad breath that are best for you. Visit Dr. Carol Jin and obtain that beautiful and fresh smile that you have always wanted!