Bad breath, also medically known as halitosis, is a very common oral problem, and there are many different causes. In most cases, persistent bad breath is caused by the smelly gases emitted by the bacteria that live in your teeth, tongue, and gums. Additionally, food remains that get stuck between the teeth and on the tongue will rot and result in an unpleasant smell.
Also, strong foods such as onions, garlic, and coffee can add to the problem. Therefore, it is important to brush and floss your teeth regularly and in the correct way. This will help to keep your breath fresh and clean.
The bacteria on your gums and teeth can also lead to gum disease and tooth decay. One of the alarming signs of gum disease is persistent bad breath or having a bad taste in your mouth. Visiting the dental office regularly will enable the dentist to spot such problems and treat them before they escalate. The earlier the oral issues are detected, the more effective the treatment will be.
With that said, here are other causes of bad breath.
Poor Oral Hygiene
If you fail to brush and floss daily, food debris lingers in your mouth and teeth, thus causing bad breath. A colourless, sticky film of bacteria forms on your teeth, and if not brushed away, it can irritate your gums, thereby forming pockets between your gums and teeth. Also, your tongue can trap bacteria that produce bad odour. In addition, dentures that do not fit perfectly and are not cleaned properly can harbour odour-causing bacteria.
Dry Mouth
Saliva goes a long way in maintaining proper oral health and preventing bad breath. It washes and removes food leftovers between your teeth, helps to break down food when you eat, and provides enzymes that help to prevent oral infections and cavities. Therefore, if you do not have enough saliva, then you probably have halitosis.
Tobacco Products
Smoking or chewing tobacco products can lead to bad breath. Also, it can discolour your teeth and may put you at a higher risk of developing gum disease. Avoid smoking for a healthier mouth, fresher breath, and brighter teeth.
Throat, Nose, and Mouth Conditions
Bad breath can sometimes be a result of small stones that form in the tonsils and are covered with bacteria that produce an unpleasant smell. Chronic inflammation or infections in the throat, nose, or sinuses can lead to postnasal drip that can also cause bad breath.
Medication
Certain drugs can reduce the saliva in your mouth and, therefore, causing bad breath. Other medications can produce odour as they break down and release chemicals in the breath.
Bottom Line
If you notice that your breath has been less fresh lately, start by following a proper oral health routine- brush twice a day using fluoride toothpaste and floss once a day. Other things such as chewing sugarless gum, cutting back on caffeine, and drinking lots of water may also help to increase your saliva flow and boost the freshness of your breath.
However, if the bad breath is still persistent, feel free to visit us at Carrum Downs Dental Group. With proper examination and deep cleaning, we will help you to rule out any oral health problems that may be behind your bad breath and recommend ways on how to take care of it.