4. Bad Breath – The Socially Awkward Symptom
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a symptom of peri-implantitis that extends beyond physical discomfort. It has the potential to impact social interactions, leading to embarrassment and self-consciousness.
The bad breath associated with peri-implantitis is caused by the bacteria present in the infected tissue around the implant. These bacteria produce volatile compounds that have a strong and unpleasant odor, leading to persistent bad breath.
Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash might temporarily mask the odor, but they do not address the underlying cause. As long as the infection and inflammation are present, the bad breath will persist.
Addressing this symptom requires tackling the peri-implantitis head-on. This might involve a combination of professional dental treatments to eliminate the infection and improve oral hygiene practices to prevent recurrence. (4)
