Gingivitis may spoil Christmas kisses

According to Dentistry Magazine, getting blown off under the mistletoe may mean something more than bad breath is at work. The culprit could be gum disease, which can cause halitosis and do serious oral damage.

Gum disease, or gingivitis, is caused by the presence of plaque on the teeth, especially when it creeps below the gum line. The bacteria associated with plaque take up residence on the gums and cause inflammation. Gingivitis is easy to spot since its hallmarks are gums that are red, tender and swollen.

Persistent gum disease can lead to tooth decay, another cause of chronic halitosis, the magazine reports. Treating gingivitis usually involves cleaning the teeth through regular brushing, flossing or even expensive and time-consuming periodontal appointments.

So, if you have gum disease, what can be done now to improve your breath? Since gingivital halitosis is often a product of odor-producing oral bacteria, rinsing your mouth with odor-neutralizing specialty breath fresheners may provide some immediate relief from the problems associated with bad breath.