We all know that eating garlic gives us bad breath. However, many other less-known causes of halitosis can create awkward social situations, and some may indicate a more serious health issue. Fortunately, the remedy is most often simple once you know you have bad breath.
What Are the Causes of Bad Breath?
Multiple things can cause bad breath. Most are harmless, but certain medical conditions can cause foul-smelling breath and need immediate medical attention. The causes of bad breath include:
· Bacteria. Your mouth contains many normal bacteria that cause no harm. They can, however, cause bad breath after feeding on any food that remains in your mouth after eating.
· Dry mouth. Your mouth depends on adequate saliva to remove odor-causing particles of food. Xerostomia, or dry mouth, can cause bad breath and other oral complications.
· Gum disease. Dental plaque not only leads to cavities and gum disease but also causes persistent bad breath.
· Foods and beverages. Consuming coffee, garlic, tuna, onions, and dairy can affect how your breath smells for hours and longer.
· Tobacco products. Smoking and other tobacco products have many adverse health effects and make your breath smell bad to others.
· Medical conditions. Several diseases and illnesses can cause halitosis, including respiratory infections, sinus infections, acid reflux, diabetes, kidney and liver disease.
How Can I Know If I Have Bad Breath?
Don’t rely on smelling your breath after breathing into your hand, which rarely works. Instead, you can try one of these ways to find out if you have bad breath:
· Ask your dentist. Trident General Dentistry wants you to have healthy teeth and gums, a bright smile, and the freshest breath possible. If you want a professional opinion, ask us about the quality of your breath and how to improve it.
· Ask a friend. A close friend or family member you trust and who will offer an honest assessment can let you know if you have offensive breath.
· Bad breath kit. You can use a home testing kit if you prefer not to ask another person. Some use strips placed on the tongue that change color to confirm bad breath.
· Smell your wrist. While breathing into your hand won’t yield reliable results, you can get an indication of your bad breath by licking the back of your hand or wrist. Wait several seconds after doing this and smell the area you licked.
How Can I Prevent Bad Breath?
Some cases of bad breath require medical treatment to resolve a disease such as diabetes. However, most people can reduce and prevent halitosis by taking these steps:
· Brush your teeth twice daily for at least two minutes each time. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and a circular brushing motion. Bacteria can lodge on the surface of your tongue, so be sure to brush your tongue thoroughly.
· Floss daily. Flossing between all your teeth with the proper flossing technique is essential for fresh breath. Missing just one place can cause bad breath. Also, be sure to floss the back surface of your teeth in the very back of your mouth.
· Use a mouthwash. Rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash can help kill bacteria and fight plaque that cause bad breath.
· Get regular dental checkups and professional teeth cleaning. This preventive measure helps ensure you keep your breath as fresh as possible.
· Stop smoking and using any tobacco products.
· Stay hydrated with ample amounts of clean drinking water each day.
· Eat a healthy diet consisting of more fruits and vegetables and less meat and dairy.
Schedule an Appointment
We can help give you fresh breath, a bright smile, and healthy teeth and gums. Call Trident General Dentistry for a comprehensive oral examination that can include testing for bad breath.