Bad breath: We have all been embarrassed enough to reach for that box of mints. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by many issues.
Here are the Most Common Causes of Bad Breath:
1. Dry mouth. A lack of saliva will create dry mouth. Dry mouth could be a side effect of smoking, mouth breathing, or even some medication. It is recommended to talk to your dentist about what are the best remedies for both dry mouths.
2. Dental issues. Halitosis can be caused by dental issues such as cavities, crowded teeth, or gum disease. See your dentist for an evaluation and to rule out any self-care options.
3. Tobacco. Smoking or chewing tobacco can cause bad breath. It can also create other complications such as oral cancers, irritated gums, or even stained teeth. The best solution for this is to consider a tobacco-free lifestyle.
4. Disease. There are a few common diseases such as tonsillitis, diabetes, sinus infections, or even respiratory issues can result in halitosis. Prescribed medication may also result in dry mouth that can make the bad breath even worse. Make sure to discuss with your doctor what are the side effects and have him address any concerns you have.
5. Bacteria. If you don’t properly brush, floss, and visit your dentist on a regular basis, bacteria will habitat in the crevices of your mouth. The collection of the bacteria will lead to bad breath because the bacteria consumes the sugars you eat and excretes an unpleasant odor. If you follow the American Dental Association’s recommendation of flossing daily, brushing twice a day, and routine visits to your dentist will help you keep your teeth clean.
6. Food. There are some foods that can give individuals temporary bad breath. For example, garlic, onions, spicy foods, coffee, or fragrant foods can all leave your mouth absent of a fresh breath. It’s recommended to either brush your teeth, use mouthwash or chew sugar-free gum to obtain fresh breath.
If you would like to address your bad breath, you first need to find out what is causing this issue. The majority of the time bad breath can be easily avoided by having a consistent oral care routine – brushing twice a day and flossing each day – living a tobacco free lifestyle and visiting your dentist for an evaluation at least twice a year. If you would like to schedule an appointment with your local dentist you can contact us anytime.
