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We all know someone whose breath is kicking. I mean just downright “they musta ate their own poop cuz it smells something awful” kinda breath. You know the co-worker who always comes over and tells you about his weekend even though you aint ask. And besides his usually horrible breath, he just ate a tuna fish sandwich! At this moment you wanna scream at the top of your lungs and say “dammit! Your breath smells like ****!”

But you don’t wanna be rude, so you suffer in silence, holding your breath for long stretches at a time so you don’t get a whiff of the funk. This guy has halitosis and probably gingivitis. The huge bacteria population, along with proteins trapped in the mouth, produce a foul odor. The tongue is the main culprit, as many bacteria thrive on the food remnants and it is usually poorly cleansed. Be honest. How many of you clean your tongue?

Most mouthwashes only cover up the smell, but do little to help the problem. Foods such as garlic, onions, dairy products and fish can cause bad breath. The food goes in the bloodstream and gets expelled from the lungs and out of your breath. Chronic bad breath is a sign of gingivitis.

Gingivitis, often referred to as gum or periodontal disease, begins with an excess of bacteria growing inside the mouth, infecting the gums, and also the tissue that surround the teeth. Gingivitis causes the gums to become swollen, red, and sensitive, often bleeding while brushing the teeth. And that is sooo not sexy!… Since there is no real pain associated with gingivitis, many people make the mistake of not seeking the treatment they need to correct the problem before permanent damage occurs.

Gingivitis is often confused with the more serious form of gum disease periodontitis, which occurs below the gum line if mild gum disease is left untreated. With periodontitis, the gums are so inflamed and swollen that they actually pull away from the teeth, exposing gaps and deep pockets for bacteria to thrive, and eventually damage the bones supporting the teeth. The teeth may then appear longer, become loose, fall out, or have to be extracted.

Causes and Risk Factors

Plaque, the clear and sticky substance that’s produced in the mouth, contains bacteria, which if not removed, build up and feed on what we eat and drink.

This bacteria then produce toxins that will eventually destroy the tissue within the mouth, irritating the gums and causing them to bleed and swell.  In addition to the usual bacteria, there are several other factors that may adversely affect gum health. Besides smoking and using tobacco, which are both known culprits for causing serious gum disease, certain medications may also increase one’s risk of gingivitis or periodontitis. Some heart medication, birth control pills, and antidepressants may inadvertently contribute to gingivitis, as well as high levels of stress and tension, and a diet lacking in the proper nutrients.

Hormonal changes and fluctuations such as those caused by puberty, pregnancy, or menopause, as well as heredity may also affect gum health and increase the risk of developing gingivitis. Other conditions such as leukemia, AIDS, or uncontrolled diabetes may also contribute to the development of gum disease.

Diagnosis and Treatment

For a diagnosis of gingivitis, a dentist will do an examination looking for bleeding gums, areas where the gums seem to be receding or pulling away from the teeth, and the presence of hard deposits called tartar or calculus that appear above and below the gums. X-rays may also be done to look for any signs of damage to the bones supporting the teeth.

Gingivitis may be treated simply by a daily and thorough brushing of the teeth, along with regular flossing and visits to the dentist for a professional cleaning and checkup. If the gingivitis has already progressed to periodontitis, antibiotics may be necessary to treat the bacterial infection within the mouth, as well as a process referred to as root planing and scaling to remove the build-up of tartar and plaque.

Prevention

Although more common in adults, people of any age are susceptible to gum disease without practicing good dental hygiene. The best ways of preventing gingivitis include flossing the teeth once per day, brushing at least twice per day, but preferably after every time you eat. Use a toothpaste that contains fluoride. Remember to brush your tongue too. Replace your toothbrush every 2-3 months. See the dentist twice a year for cleanings and avoiding tobacco products will also help to keep the gums at their healthiest.

The Dentist- recommended time for brushing your teeth is 2-3 minutes, but the average American only brushes for 30 seconds!