What’s Behind Bad Breath?

Bad breath or halitosis is caused by odor-producing bacteria in the mouth. One of the main reasons for bad breath is poor dental habits. 

What Causes Bad Breath?

When an individual does not brush or floss regularly, bacteria mix up with the food particles left in the mouth. These bacteria release sulfur causing bad breath. Below are other reasons for bad breath:

Mouth Infection: Tooth decay, gum diseases, or tooth removal can cause malodor.

Food: Certain food items such as garlic, onion may give off a bad odor in your breath.

Medications: Few medications are associated with bad breath since it dries the mouth.

Dry mouth: Saliva aids in the cleaning of teeth. When water intake is reduced, bacteria in the mouth release an unpleasant odor.

Underlying diseases: Diseases such as gastroesophageal reflux or GERD, chronic sinusitis, or throat infection can cause distinctive odor.  

How to Prevent Bad Breath

Identifying the reason for bad breath is essential since it will make it easier to tackle the problem: 

• Reduce food that causes bad odor and those that cause plaque buildup.
• Brush your teeth two times a day, preferably with fluoridated toothpaste.
• Brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to remove the accumulated bacteria which causes bad breath.
• Floss and clean between your teeth to get rid of food stuck in between your teeth.
• If bad breath is caused by dry mouth, use sugar-free chewing gum to stimulate saliva flow.
• Drink lots of water to prevent dry mouth. This can help get rid of foul smell
• Avoid smoking and nicotine use. These products not only discolor teeth but also induce foul breath.
• Use a good antiseptic mouthwash recommended by your dentist for shorter durations. 

See Your Dentist

If you brush and floss regularly and still face bad breath, there might be an underlying health issue. Our dental experts can help to identify issues such as gum infection or sinusitis. 

What to Expect at the Dentist

The dentist will refer you to an oral specialist to determine the root cause of the malodor. The medical history of a person would help to identify if the issue is due to internal or external factors. They will develop a treatment plan to minimize foul odor. 

In case your bad breath is caused by bacteria in your mouth, an oral specialist would take the necessary steps to eradicate the same.

For comprehensive dental care, visit Covington Signature Dentistry at 27121 174th Place SE, Suite 202, Covington, WA 98042. Call us at (253) 638-9955 for appointments.