Skip to main content

What Does Your Breath Tell Your Dentist?

We can diagnose more than your oral health. A trip to our offices can indicate medical problems as well.

We smell a lot of breath. It’s not a big deal. Most people brush their teeth before coming to our office anyway. They floss too—often for the first time since their last appointment.

Your breath is a good indicator of health. Here’s what it tells us:

Fruity breath

If you have fruity breath, the culprit is likely diabetes. Diabetes is a metabolic disorder. It causes the body to not produce enough insulin. That leads to excess glucose in the blood. If it’s not controlled. it gives your breath a fruity smell.

Fishy breath

While fruity breath has a distinctive cause, fishy breath can mean several things. Two of them are liver and kidney failure. Fishy breath is something to see your doctor about for further testing.

Foul breath

Foul breath also has several causes. Strep throat has a horrible smell. Other causes can be GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux), a lung abscess, or bronchitis.

Our breath can mean many things. Of course, not all bad breath is a serious medical issue. Even gum disease, which can get serious, has an impact on your breath. Good oral health isn’t the only reason to go to the dentist. It can save your life.

You Might Also Enjoy...

Why Do My Teeth Suddenly Look Longer?

Why Do My Teeth Suddenly Look Longer?

Tooth problems are common, but sometimes the signs are harder to see. For example, if your teeth start looking longer, you might think it’s due to a dental issue — but the answer to why it happens may be surprising.
The Link Between Oral Health and Facial Collapse

The Link Between Oral Health and Facial Collapse

Our bodies are in a constant state of change, and nowhere is that more evident than in our bones. Reabsorption is normal for bones, but problems like facial collapse often stem from dental issues that can be prevented.
Do I Really Need to Brush My Baby’s Teeth?

Do I Really Need to Brush My Baby’s Teeth?

Instilling good health habits in children means starting at a young age. With oral hygiene, it’s no different. But, is it necessary to brush your baby’s teeth? If so, when should you start? Find out here.
5 Invaluable Benefits of Twice-Yearly Dental Visits

5 Invaluable Benefits of Twice-Yearly Dental Visits

Maintaining oral health is important, but the brushing and flossing you do at home isn’t always enough to prevent problems. That’s where annual dental visits come in. Read on to learn five key benefits of twice yearly oral health check-ups.
What Happens If I Delay a Recommended Root Canal?

What Happens If I Delay a Recommended Root Canal?

A root canal already has a bad reputation because people often associate it with pain, but it’s actually a tooth-saving treatment that’s more like having a deep cavity filled. Here’s what can happen if you delay a recommended root canal.