BAD BREATH: THE FACTS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Bad breath can be caused by poor oral hygiene, eating certain foods, dry mouth, or sometimes a more serious dental issue. Listed below are some of the common causes and preventive measures for bad breath.

Bad breath Causes

• Gum disease

If you have poor oral health caused by untreated gum disease, this can contribute to bad breath. Bacteria from plaque buildup on your teeth can break down proteins in your mouth, which creates a foul smell. If your gums bleed when you brush or floss, this could be a sign of gingivitis. It’s important to visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups to prevent gum disease!

• Smoking

Smoking is another common cause of chronic bad breath. As tobacco products contain chemicals that can irritate the mouth and cause stains, they can also lead to persistent bad breath. If your mouth isn’t cleansed thoroughly enough in between brushings, these particles will build up and lead to smelly breath. 

• Diet

Diet can also affect your oral health, as well as whether you experience bad breath or not. Certain foods can lead to bad breath, such as onions, garlic, meat, and cheese. Acidic foods and drinks can also cause bad breath as they break down the protein in saliva and create an unpleasant odor. If you suffer from acid reflux, you may notice that the smell of gastric acid in the back of your throat is also present in your breath.

• Dry mouth

A dry mouth can allow for bacteria to thrive, which can cause bad breath. If you experience dry mouth in the morning, the cause may be dehydration from not drinking enough water the night before. Drinking water throughout the day can help to prevent this. There are some medications that may contribute to dry mouth. Talk to your doctor if you think this may be the case for you. Also keep in mind that some mouthwashes or mints can contribute to dry mouth, so it’s best to talk to your dentist about the best treatment for you.

• Poor oral hygiene

When you don’t take proper care of your teeth, they can become discolored and damaged. Plaque can build up on teeth and lead to cavities. Bacteria can also multiply and cause bad breath. 

• Sinus problems 

If your sinuses aren’t draining correctly, you may have chronic sinus issues that lead to bad breath.

• Medication side effects

Some medications cause dry mouth as a side effect, which can also cause bad breath.

• Illness 

If you have an infection or illness, such as the flu, you may experience changes in your health that can lead to bad breath.

How To Prevent Bad Breath?

It is important to identify the causes of bad breath in order to prevent it. Bad breath can be caused by poor dental hygiene, dry mouth or underlying health conditions such as gum disease or diabetes. You can prevent bad breath by practicing good oral hygiene by brushing your teeth at least twice a day and flossing daily to eliminate food particles and plaque. You should visit your dentist for preventative care twice a year to identify any other underlying causes of bad breath. Drinking plenty of water can also help to keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria that cause bad breath.

If you suffer from bad breath that won’t go away after using these products, see your dentist to determine a treatment plan right for you. Your dentist may recommend treatment such as a deep cleaning or a fluoride gel application to help eliminate the cause of your bad breath.

To learn more about bad breath in Salt Lake City, Utah, please reach out to Bishop Family Dental and talk to a member of our dental team. Call 801-274-2500 and we will be more than happy to help you.