What causes bad breath?
If you can identify the cause, half of the battle is won.
Bad breath also called halitosis is mostly triggered in the mouth by:
- the byproduct of food particles left on or between
the teeth, on the gum line and the bacteria on the back of the tongue and in the mouth secretes volatile sulfur compounds that smells like rotten eggs.
- Infections in your mouth such as caries, periodontal disease, mouth sores can contribute to bad breath.
- Saliva helps washing food particles in your mouth, so if you have a dry mouth which can be generated from different origins ( taking certain medications, salivary gland problems, breathing through your mouth) can increase the risk of halitosis.
- To a lesser degree diet (garlic a big villain) which have chemicals that cause odor are absorbed in your bloodstream then into your lungs which are then exhaled.
- Certain health conditions: infection in your nose, throat, lungs or disturbances in your digestive system can also be a source.
Controlling bad breath.
Good oral hygiene is the best weapon against bad breath.
- Removing those food particles on the teeth by brushing with a fluoride containing toothpaste for two minutes twice a day, flossing once a day to clean between the teeth, and removing the bacteria on the back of your tongue with a toothbrush or a tongue scraper has been shown to reduce up to 70% of bad odor. Your dentist can advise adding a special antibacterial mouth rinse as well.
- Remove and brush any partial or full dentures with a denture cleanser and leave them out at night.
- Having regular check ups and cleanings prevents build-up of plaque that causes caries and gum disease. Your dentist can bring your mouth to a healthy state.
- Try sugar free gum, or sugar free candies to help stimulate the salivary flow if you have a dry mouth. Artificial Saliva can help as well.
If your dentist rules out any localized conditions then he or she will refer you to your physician to determine any systemic cause (such as diabetes, liver, kidney disease ...)
Any question please ask us. Make an appointment for a regular check-up at Empower Your Smile.