Bad Breath: Is It a Sign of Gum Disease?

Do you have periodontal disease?

Hello Dr.
Lai,
In the past couple of years, I have noticed a foul odor coming from my mouth.
Initially, I couldn't find the cause, but recently I have observed a few phenomena that I would like to inquire about.
A while ago, I experienced significant bleeding while brushing my teeth.
I consulted a dentist who diagnosed me with mild periodontal disease, but they could not identify the true cause of the bad breath or provide any improvement.
I do not smoke or chew betel nut, and I maintain a regular brushing routine.
Recently, I noticed that when I apply pressure to the gums around my two front teeth, some yellow pus comes out.
When I smell this fluid, it has a particularly foul odor.
I am unsure if this is related to periodontal disease and what treatment I should pursue.
Thank you.

honmayi, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/05/13

Dr. Lai Yishao reply Dentistry

Oral malodor is often associated with periodontal disease.
Symptoms may include bleeding during brushing, enlarged spaces between teeth, and even the presence of pus.
The key to treatment lies in maintaining oral hygiene and thoroughly removing dental plaque.
It is recommended to seek treatment from a periodontist.

Reply Date: 2004/05/13

More Info

Dear Honmayi,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns regarding bad breath and the associated symptoms you have been experiencing. Bad breath, or halitosis, can indeed be a sign of gum disease, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms such as bleeding gums and the presence of pus or discharge from the gums.

From your description, it seems you have been experiencing several concerning symptoms: bleeding gums while brushing, the presence of a foul-smelling discharge from your gums, and a diagnosis of mild periodontal disease. These symptoms are commonly associated with gingivitis or periodontitis, both of which are forms of gum disease.
Gum disease begins with gingivitis, which is characterized by inflammation of the gums due to plaque buildup. If left untreated, it can progress to periodontitis, where the inflammation extends deeper into the supporting structures of the teeth, potentially leading to tooth loss. The presence of pus or a foul-smelling discharge, particularly when you apply pressure to your gums, is indicative of an infection, which is often a sign of periodontitis.

The yellowish discharge you mentioned is likely pus, which can result from the body’s immune response to bacterial infection in the gums. This pus can have a particularly foul odor, contributing to the bad breath you are experiencing. The bleeding during brushing is another red flag that indicates inflammation and possible infection in the gum tissues.

To address your concerns, it is essential to take the following steps:
1. Visit a Periodontist: Since you have already seen a dentist who diagnosed you with mild periodontal disease, it may be beneficial to consult a periodontist, a specialist in gum diseases. They can provide a more comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan tailored to your condition.

2. Professional Cleaning: A professional dental cleaning can help remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing may not eliminate. This cleaning is crucial in managing gum disease and can significantly improve your oral health.

3. Improved Oral Hygiene: Continue to maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, and don’t forget to floss daily to remove food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under the gumline. Consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria in your mouth.

4. Regular Dental Check-ups: Schedule regular dental visits for check-ups and cleanings. This will help monitor your gum health and catch any issues early before they progress.

5. Lifestyle Changes: While you mentioned that you do not smoke or chew betel nut, maintaining a healthy diet and staying hydrated can also contribute to better oral health. Avoiding sugary foods and beverages can help reduce plaque buildup.

6. Address Underlying Health Issues: Sometimes, systemic health issues such as diabetes can exacerbate gum disease. If you have any underlying health conditions, it’s important to manage them effectively.

In conclusion, your symptoms suggest that you may be experiencing a form of gum disease, which can indeed lead to bad breath. It is crucial to seek further evaluation and treatment from a dental professional to address the infection and improve your oral health. Taking proactive steps now can help prevent more severe complications in the future.

Best wishes for your dental health, and I hope you find relief from your symptoms soon.

Sincerely,
Doctor Q&A Teams

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