We can all agree on something – Eliminating bad breath is important and something nobody likes to have or experience, and it can be a big turn off in any social situation. In this article we will discuss some of the main causes of bad breath and what can be done to cure and eliminate this problem, which is called “Halitosis” by medical terms.
Poor Oral Hygiene
In most cases, the main cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. In addition to your regular dentis visits for cleaning and check-ups, your daily routine plays a major role in keeping fresh breath. Brushing your teeth twice-daily (ideally for 5 minutes each), teeth flossing at the end of every meal, to make sure all food particles are completely removed from your mouth, tongue and between your teeth. Mouth rinsers are also a big plus and can help keep your mouth clean and free from harmful bacteria.
Periodontal Disease
Gum disease Illustration
Periodontal disease or gum disease is very likely to cause bad breath, and a condition that requires an immediate dental visit and treatment, not only for the purpose of getting rid of the smell. Gum disease that is left untreated can continue to cause more damage to your jawbones and gums.
Dental Appliances
Dental appliances and dentures are especially a potential to house odor-causing bacteria growth that may be difficult to reach, which is whey they should always be looked after and cleaned properly on a daily basis at least.
Tobacco Smoking or Chewing
You probably already know by now that one of the damages caused by tobacco is bad breath. In addition to the tobacco smell itself, smoking can promote bacterial growth in your mouth, turn your teeth yellow and irritate your gums, adding to the risk of other oral health issues.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth conditions (or Xerostomia) can also be a cause of bad breath. If you have a dry mouth condition, it could be a sign of other health problems and respiratory tract infections such as chronic sinus infections, postnasal drip, diabetes, chronic acid reflux, liver or kidney problems. Other causes of dry mouth include breathing with open mouth or medications side effects. When the mouth is dry and lacking saliva, cells begin to decay, which contributes to bad breath.
Food Choices
Everything we eat and consume starts its journy and gets broken down into tiny pieces in our mouth and makes its way into our blood system and lungs, which then comes out as we breeth. This is why consuming foods with strong smell profile such as onion and garlic causes bad breath that is difficult to get rid of even after cleaning the mouth and using breath freshners.
If you are concerned that you have one of the conditions described above that may also lead to bad breath, please make an appointment to visit our dental clinic in Denver.
