Bad Breath: Causes and Solutions
Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be embarrassing and tough to deal with. In some cases, it may even be a sign of a more serious underlying health condition. Understanding the causes of bad breath is the first step in finding a solution.
There are many potential causes of bad breath, including poor oral hygiene, certain foods and drinks, tobacco use, medical conditions, and more. Keeping your mouth clean by brushing and flossing regularly is one of the best ways to prevent bad breath. Some other tips for preventing bad breath include quitting smoking, avoiding alcoholic beverages, and drinking plenty of water. If you’re still struggling with bad breath after trying these prevention methods, it’s important to see your Aberdeen NJ dentist or doctor to rule out any underlying health problems.
Causes of Bad Breath
Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common causes of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles and bacteria can build up in your mouth, causing your breath to smell unpleasant. Brushing twice a day for two minutes each time and flossing once a day are both essential for good oral hygiene. Be sure to brush your tongue as well—this will help remove bacteria that cause bad breath.
Certain Foods and Drinks
What you eat and drink can also cause bad breath. Foods like garlic and onions contain volatile sulfur compounds that are released into your bloodstream when you digest them. These compounds then travel to your lungs where they are exhaled through your mouth, causing your breath to smell unpleasant. Coffee, tea, and alcohol can also cause bad breath because they promote dehydration, which can lead to dry mouth. A dry mouth occurs when there is not enough saliva in your mouth, which can allow bacteria to grow. Spicy foods may also cause temporary bad breath because they can irritate your gums.
Tobacco Use
Chewing tobacco or smoking cigarettes can cause bad breath because tobacco products promote dry mouth. Not only does this reduce saliva production, but it also leaves behind a sticky residue that contains foul-smelling compounds. tobacco products also contribute to gum disease, which can cause bad breath. In addition, cigarettes leave behind a distinctive smell that clings to clothing, hair, skin, and anything else nearby.
Contact Friendly Dental Today!
At Friendly Dental, we are proud to offer high-quality dental care for patients of all ages. We understand that finding a dentist can be a daunting task, which is why we offer a wide range of services to meet your needs. Whether you are looking for a regular checkup or more extensive dental work, we are here to help. We also offer emergency dental care for those times when you need it most. Contact Friendly Dental today to schedule an appointment. We look forward to meeting you!