Periodontal disease turns mouths into bad breath factories

Though it can do much worse, one of the most noticeable side effects of periodontal disease is halitosis. An infection of this kind can be quite serious, ultimately putting more than your breath at risk, which is one reason why it is important to use specialty breath fresheners that neutralize the oral bacteria that cause gum disease.

Periodontal disease can be thought of as the successor to gingivitis, and it's not something that you want to get. While gingivitis may be painful, periodontitis can be downright dangerous.

Your mouth is filled with bacteria, some of which are relatively harmless. However, plenty of these microbial species live to attack your teeth and gums. If you avoid cleaning your mouth, you are giving these microorganisms leave to thrive.

When the bacteria that live on your dental plaque cause redness and swelling of the gums, the resulting condition is called gingivitis. If left unchecked, this infection can spread below the gum line, leading to periodontal disease.

Unlike gingivitis, periodontitis is an infection of the dental root itself. The National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research states that this condition consists of "pockets" of infection beneath the gums.

Without immediate treatment, periodontal disease can dramatically increase the risk of tooth loss, according to the American Dental Association. If you smoke, chew tobacco or have crooked teeth, loose fillings or diabetes, you have a higher likelihood of developing the condition, the organization adds.

What can be done about periodontal disease? Fortunately, some of the same specialty breath freshening products that eliminate halitosis can also neutralize some of the bacteria associated with periodontitis.

Being able to bust bad breath and treat infected gums all at once is quite a boon for oral health. If you think you have periodontal disease, consider scheduling a dentist's appointment as soon as possible. Besides boosting halitosis, periodontitis is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease.