Natural smiles, carefully designed.

The literature describes 50–60 different causes of bad breath, and most of them relate to the gums. Common causes include gum inflammation (gingivitis, periodontitis), impacted wisdom teeth, poorly fitting crowns and bridges, or faulty fillings. There can also be causes outside the mouth, such as throat infections, chronic sinusitis, reflux, digestive problems or diet. That is why an accurate diagnosis should come first, with treatment planned accordingly.

The main cause of gum disease is microbial dental plaque, and the make-up of your saliva plays a role in how it forms. Saliva composition is inherited, which is why tartar builds up faster in some people than in others. It cannot be changed, but preventive measures such as regular cleaning and check-ups can be stepped up. Tartar that is left in place advances down towards the root inside the gum pocket, dissolving bone and leading to gum recession, sensitivity, loose teeth and eventually tooth loss.

If you run your hand over smooth glass, nothing happens; run it over a rough surface and it becomes irritated and may bleed. Your gums should likewise rest against a smooth tooth surface. Any roughness beneath the gum line, most often tartar, overhanging fillings or poorly fitting crowns and bridges, keeps irritating the gum and causes bleeding. The cause should be identified at an examination and removed.

Scaling (tartar removal) and whitening are not the same thing. Scaling is necessary for your health and should be done regularly. On the other hand, having tea, coffee or smoking stains polished off every month or every two to three months can wear down the enamel and may do harm. The real way to reduce staining is to cut back on these habits; whether whitening is suitable for you is assessed at an examination.

Not necessarily. Because saliva composition is inherited, you may have a similar predisposition. However, gum disease is largely preventable with measures taken early in life and regular check-ups.