Do you notice an unpleasant odor coming from your mouth when you haven’t brushed your teeth or after you wake up?
This is what you call halitosis, commonly called bad breath. It happens to most of us; however, if bad breath is persistent and affects yourself and others, it can be a severe problem that should be addressed as soon as possible.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath is caused by odor-producing bacteria that thrive in the mouth. When food gets trapped between your teeth and along the gum line, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria. They will then release foul-smelling odors as a by-product, causing bad breath.
Another common cause is eating food with a strong odor, such as garlic and onion. These spicy foods contain high levels of sulfur. Even though sulfur is healthy, it creates a distinct, relatively unpleasant smell.
Medical conditions like infections in the body, diabetes, kidney failure, or liver malfunction can also cause bad breath. The smell caused by these medical issues can be sorted out once taken care of.
Other causes of smelly breath include smoking, stress, dieting, age, and hormonal changes.
Tips to improve bad breath
Learn how to treat bad breath by following these simple tips:
- Brush twice a day – The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing two times daily. Always use a soft-bristle toothbrush, and aim to brush for at least two minutes. Use toothpaste with antibacterial properties to reduce foul breath odors.
- Floss at least once a day – Floss once a day to remove food and plaque stuck between the teeth that can build up and cause odor.
- Clean your tongue – Residual food and bacteria on the tongue can cause a foul odor, so make sure to brush your tongue clean.
- Drink plenty of water – A dry mouth is the perfect breeding ground for smelly bacteria. Hydrating often throughout the day is an all-natural way to improve your breath.
- Put a stop to bad habits – Make some lifestyle changes, like quitting smoking and eating healthy to maintain good oral health. Remember, anything you put inside your body can affect how your breath smells.
- Schedule regular dental checkups – Visit the dentist regularly to assure your mouth is healthy, and in case there is an issue, you can address it early on.
We’re Here For You
Crossroads Family Dentistry is here for you if you suffer from bad breath. Get in touch with us to schedule an exam, and say goodbye to bad breath once and for all.