Chronic Bad Breath? It Could Be a Sign of Periodontal Disease

Mints and mouthwash might mask bad breath, but what if the smell keeps coming back? If chronic bad breath (halitosis) is part of your daily life, it could be more than just the garlic you had at lunch. One common culprit is periodontal disease. 

At Fayette Dental Group in Fayetteville, Georgia, our expert team, led by Charley Cheney, DMD, understands that periodontal (gum) disease is a serious condition that affects the tissues and bone supporting your teeth. 

Left untreated, it can cause tooth loss and other health complications. Often, the first red flag isn’t pain. Instead, it’s breath that just won’t stay fresh. 

Why does gum disease cause bad breath? 

Bad breath happens when bacteria break down food particles, releasing sulfur compounds that smell unpleasant. 

In periodontal disease, bacteria thrive in deep gum pockets around your teeth, making it much harder to brush or floss them away. Here’s how gum disease fuels bad breath: 

Bacterial build-up 

Plaque and tartar harbor odor-causing bacteria. 

Infected gums 

Inflamed or bleeding gums can give off a persistent odor. 

Trapped food particles 

Deep gum pockets hold onto debris, feeding bacteria. 

Dry mouth 

Gum disease can reduce saliva, making it easier for bacteria to linger. 

Other signs of periodontal disease 

Bad breath is often the first clue, but it’s rarely the only one. Periodontal disease can be sneaky, starting small and progressing quietly over time. Watch out for these warning signs: 

• Receding gum line (teeth appear “longer”) 
• Loose or shifting teeth 
• Pain when chewing 
• A persistent bad taste in your mouth 

If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to get your gums checked. 

How to freshen your breath and protect your gums

The good news is that periodontal disease is treatable, especially when caught early. Addressing the cause improves your overall health and freshens your breath long-term. Here’s what can help: 

Professional cleaning 

Our team can remove hardened tartar that brushing alone can’t. 

Scaling and root planing 

This is a deep cleaning procedure that targets bacteria below your gum line. 

Consistent oral hygiene 

We recommend brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and rinsing with antibacterial mouthwash. 

Stay hydrated

Drinking water helps wash away bacteria and prevents dry mouth. 

Healthy lifestyle 

Quit smoking, eat a balanced diet, and limit sugary foods. 

If bad breath lingers even after brushing and flossing, it’s time to schedule an appointment with us. Dr. Cheney can determine whether periodontal disease is the cause and recommend the right treatment. 

Ignoring the problem won’t make it go away. In fact, untreated gum disease can lead to tooth loss and even impact your overall health.

If you’re ready to learn more, call us at 770-683-2000 or use our online booking tool to request an appointment with Dr. Cheney today!