If you’re like most people, you’ve experienced halitosis, or bad breath, at some point in your life. There are a number of reasons why people develop bad breath. In most cases, bad breath is a temporary, harmless problem that can be easily remedied. However, chronic halitosis can be a symptom of a number of serious medical conditions. If you can’t seem to get rid of your persistent bad breath, it may be time to speak to your dentist about the problem.
What are Some of the Causes of Bad Breath?
There are many reasons why a person may suddenly develop bad breath. Here are a few of the most common causes:
Tooth Decay
The same bacteria that cause tooth decay can also cause bad breath. They release foul-smelling waste products as they feed on the food particles left on your teeth and gums.
Gum Disease
Chronic halitosis can be a symptom of gum disease, caused by a buildup of plaque.
Dry Mouth
Saliva helps to keep your mouth hydrated and washed out, which helps to freshen your breath. Dry mouth can result from certain medications, salivary gland problems, drinking alcohol, or breathing through the mouth.
Medication
A few of the medications that can affect your breath include:
- Acid reducers
- Antidepressants
- Antifungals
- Antihistamines
- Steroids
- Chemotherapeutic agents
- Dietary supplements
- Organosulfur substances
Medical Conditions
Halitosis can be a sign of mouth infection, sinus condition, diabetes, liver disease or kidney disease. If brushing and flossing don’t get rid of the odor, your dentist may recommend you see your physician.
Beware of These Foods
There’s a long list of foods that can give your breath an unpleasant odor, including:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Peppers
- Canned tuna
- Peanut butter
- Coffee
- Radishes
- Milk
Smoking
Smoking stains your teeth and dries out your mouth, giving you halitosis and exposing you to other health risks, such as gum disease.
Getting Rid of That Bad Breath
In most instances, controlling your bad breath isn’t that difficult:
Brushing and flossing
Brushing and flossing at least twice a day is an effective way to get rid of the bacteria responsible for tooth decay, gum disease, and halitosis. The longer you go between brushings and flossing, the more likely that unpleasant odors will develop. It’s very important to brush your tongue as well.
Regular Dental Checkups and Cleanings
A regular dental checkup will allow your dentist to determine the cause of any bad breath problems you may be experiencing. Professional teeth cleaning helps keep your mouth free of the bacteria that cause bad breath.
Mouthwash
Over-the-counter mouthwashes are formulated to kill the bacteria in your mouth as well as mask bad breath.
Chewing Gum
Chewing gum helps clean your teeth and produces saliva that keeps your mouth hydrated. In addition, many chewing gums are formulated specifically to freshen your breath, with ingredients that cover bad breath by releasing a pleasant aroma inside the mouth as the gum is chewed.
Watch What You Eat
Good news: there are plenty of delicious foods you can eat that actually fight bad breath including:
- Probiotic yogurts
- Cherries
- Celery
- Apples
- Carrots
- Pears
- Strawberries
- Melons
- Green and black tea
- Lemon juice
- Basil
- Mint
- Cinnamon
Quit Smoking
Getting rid of your bad breath is only one of the many health benefits you’ll enjoy when you decide to stop smoking.
Good Breath Gone Bad? Contact The Dental Space
Bad breath can do more than make you unpopular. It may be a sign of tooth decay, gum disease, or even a serious medical condition. If you’ve been experiencing chronic halitosis, schedule a visit to The Dental Space today.
The Dental Space is a San Marcos, TX family dentist clinic that provides a full spectrum of family dental services, including checkups and cleanings, extractions, bridgework, teeth whitening, crowns, fillings, and more. Dr. McCartor and his team of oral hygienists use the most advanced equipment and pain-free procedures to treat their patients. We serve patients of all ages — even those as young as six months.
If it’s been a while since you’ve visited the dentist, now’s the time to schedule a checkup at The Dental Space. We’re always glad to see new patients. You can contact us online or call us at 512-667-9770 to schedule an appointment The Dental Space is located in San Marcos, TX at 1101 Thorpe Ln, Suite 101, just off IH 35 in the Springtown Center Shopping Mall. We happily accept Medicaid and CHIP, as well as most PPO plans, and provide patients with a wide range of payment options.
