| âś… Reviewed by Dr. Tom McCawley | đź•’ Reading time: two minutes |
If someone in your life has bad breath, chances are you will never tell them. And if you’re the one with it… chances are no one has told you.
Bad breath, also called halitosis, is one of the most uncomfortable topics to bring up, but it’s incredibly common. More importantly, it’s not just a cosmetic issue. Persistent bad breath is often one of the earliest warning signs of gum disease.
At McCawley Center for Laser Periodontics & Implants in Fort Lauderdale, we specialize in pinpointing the root causes of chronic bad breath and treating them with science-backed solutions that go beyond brushing and mouthwash.
Can Gum Disease Give You Bad Breath?
Bad breath is almost always a sign of gum disease. While everyone experiences occasional morning breath, chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing or mouth rinses is a different story. It often means bacteria have built up deep below the gumline.
As gum disease progresses, pockets form between your teeth and gums. These pockets trap bacteria and food particles, which begin to decay and release foul-smelling gases. The deeper the infection, the stronger the odor.
If you’ve noticed persistent halitosis (or a loved one has hinted at it) it is time to schedule an appointment with a periodontist.
Other Signs of Gum Disease
Bad breath is one of the earliest and most noticeable signs of gum disease. But it is not the only one. Gum disease often develops silently, and many people do not realize they have it until more serious symptoms appear. These may include:
- A bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away
- White or yellow buildup on the tongue
- Bleeding gums when brushing or flossing
- Receding gums or loose teeth
If you are noticing these symptoms alongside persistent bad breath, it may be time to look deeper. Gum disease can lead to tooth loss and systemic inflammation if not treated early.
| Did You Know? Some of the most dangerous bacteria in your mouth are invisible to the naked eye, but we can see them live under the microscope. This diagnostic insight helps us treat bad breath and gum disease at the source. |
How to Fix Bad Breath Caused by Gum Disease
The good news is that both bad breath and gum disease are treatable, especially when you address the root cause: oral bacteria. While these conditions are closely connected, they require two separate treatment approaches that work together for lasting results.
We use advanced diagnostics and targeted therapies to treat each condition individually:
- Bad breath treatment begins with phase-contrast microscopy to identify the specific bacteria responsible for the odor. We use patented breath treatment technology—available only at our office—to eliminate odor-causing microbes that traditional cleanings cannot reach.
- Gum disease treatment may involve:
- Laser periodontal treatment (LANAP®): A minimally invasive, FDA-cleared procedure that removes infection, disinfects deep gum pockets, and stimulates healing—without scalpels or stitches.
- Antimicrobial therapy: Targeted antibiotics or antifungals prescribed based on lab-tested cultures to eliminate gum disease at the bacterial level.
- Home care coaching and maintenance supports both treatments with personalized hygiene routines starting with tongue cleaning to help you stay healthy and prevent bad breath and reinfection.
Our approach addresses both problems directly, restoring your oral health and giving you fresh breath that lasts.
When to See a Periodontist
If you are experiencing bad breath that won’t go away, bleeding gums, or loose teeth, it’s time for a deeper look. Most general dentists treat symptoms. We treat the root cause—the bacteria that create disease and odor in the first place.
You do not have to wait for someone to tell you something is wrong. If your breath seems off or you have noticed bleeding gums or changes in your bite, trust your instincts. Early treatment can stop the infection before it causes serious damage.
Book a Periodontal Exam in Fort Lauderdale, FL
If bad breath is affecting your life, there is a solution. At McCawley Center for Laser Periodontics & Implants in Fort Lauderdale, we combine decades of experience with state-of-the-art technology to cure your bad breath and periodontal disease.
To book an appointment at our periodontal office in Fort Lauderdale, FL, call (954) 807-4829 or visit us at 800 East Broward Blvd #706 Fort Lauderdale, FL.
