Q: I had laser gum surgery 9 days ago to remove some gum tissue that was growing over my implant posts (while we are waiting for the lab to re-do a mistake on my permanent crowns for implants). I have a horrible taste in my mouth and have really bad breath since the laser. My periodontist says he has no answer to why I have this. I need to know if this is normal after laser surgery, and how long it will take to go away. Thank you for your help. Trina
A: Dear Trina:
We really have not seen what you are describing after our laser procedures. We usually don’t have any “bad breath complaints”. Did your Periodontist look in your mouth and examine the tissues when you started having the bad breath? Was there any infection? Was there food and plaque buildup all over your teeth, gums and cheeks? Do you have any other teeth which might have infection and drainage? Have you been brushing any areas of your mouth, or tongue? You could get bacteria buildup on the tongue which could contribute to bad breath. Are you taking any medications? Using any rinses? Any change in diet? Do you have any digestive problems? All these are possible explanations. Be sure to check with your Periodontist to rule out any of these possibilities.
Best of luck,
Dr. Eric Linden
