Treatment Options for Chronic Halitosis and Periodontal Disease, By Steven R. Fox, D.D.S.

The social and emotional effects of chronic halitosis, or bad breath, are enough to compel most patients to seek immediate solutions from a qualified medical professional. However, it is also true that chronic halitosis is commonly a side effect of the much more serious condition of periodontal disease, and as such should be treated by a dental professional right away.

In treating periodontal disease, the dentist must pay special attention to the infected gum areas, which may form pockets where the plaque accumulates. A periodontal specialist can, in most cases, safely and effectively clean these pocket areas. The dentist may recommend the patient use an anti-microbial rinse or other germ-neutralizing product. Because poor nutrition, dental cavities, hormonal changes, and stress can exacerbate halitosis, patients undergoing treatment for periodontal disease should reduce these factors as much as possible.

Steven R. Fox, D.D.S, practices general, aesthetic, and reconstructive dentistry from his offices in New York City. Dr. Fox has taught at Harvard University School of Dental Medicine and is a fellow of the American College of Dentistry and the International College of Dentistry.

An Interview with Steven R. Fox, DDS

Over the past 30 years, New York City dentist Steven R. Fox, DDS, developed a reputation as a pioneer in restorative and cosmetic dentistry. A member of the American Dental Association, Dr. Fox earned the United States Senate Medal of Freedom as well as recognition by Ernst & Young as its 1999 Entrepreneur of the Year. As a leading dental professional, Steven Fox, DDS, has made several appearances on major television networks to explain various aspects of oral health.

Q: You made a name for yourself in terms of your practical philosophy of early cosmetic intervention. Could you provide a summary of this concept?

A: Early cosmetic intervention rests on a foundation of minimal invasiveness. For example, during a regular checkup, dentists often find early signs of tooth decay and opt to wait until it becomes more pronounced before treating the problem. This is, of course, a cost benefit to the patient and dentist alike, at least in the short-term. For me, when I see such issues, I begin work immediately, and often at the microscopic level, in order to treat issues or prevent further problems within the affected area. This concept of early detection, prevention, and treatment is useful beyond dentistry and can extend to medical care and even daily life.

Q: What has patient response to this philosophy been like?

A: I’ve been in practice many years, and patients keep coming back, so I take that as a good sign. Patients often express relief that the procedures I provide circumvent heavy drilling. Of course, there are times when a traditional procedure is required, but I always endeavor to do the least damage possible. Fundamentally, I treat my patients as I would like to be treated.

Q: You are also known for contributing significant developments to restorative dental procedures. Is there an example that stands out in your mind?

A: My contributions are always in tandem with many great minds in the industry as well as the needs of my patients. One useful technique that I had a hand in developing is remineralization, which restores calcium to the teeth, making them stronger and more resilient against plaque and bacterial growth. Also, I developed a special program to cure bad breath, and I have developed Fox Slip-on Veneers for a veneer with no drilling.

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