Our bodies have many ways of telling us that something is not quite right or that there is a problem brewing. Halitosis (bad breath) is sometimes one of those warning signs. If your bad breath is just a temporary condition, it could be the result of something you ate. The bad breath will go away once the food has been digested and eliminated from your body. But if bad breath persists, it’s time to visit your dentist to ensure there isn’t a larger problem brewing.
The possible causes behind persistent bad breath are many:
- Poor oral hygiene habits – If you do not brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day, bacteria and food particles build up creating an unpleasant odor.
- Smoking or other tobacco products – Tobacco products are very hard on your oral health and can contribute to gum disease which can contribute to bad breath.
- Dry mouth (also known as xerostomia) – Saliva plays an important role in keeping your mouth healthy. Saliva helps to move food particles from your mouth into your digestive system. When saliva is reduced, your mouth is not being continually cleaned of particles that can remain and cause bad breath.
- Periodontal Disease – Bad breath is often an indicator of gum disease which can be destroying your gum tissue. Regular professional dental cleanings can help prevent or stop any gum infections or problems that might exist.
- Medical Disorders – Bad breath can also be an indicator of more serious health problems. If we determine that there are no problems with your teeth or gums, we may refer you to a doctor or a specialist to check for issues that could cause your halitosis.
When you recognize that your breath is not as pleasant as it should be, it’s time to take some steps to correct the situation.
- Don’t use sugary breath mints – The sugar will combine with the bacteria in your mouth to create acid that attacks the enamel on your teeth. If you don’t already have cavities, this habit will put you on track to developing some!
- Begin by improving your oral hygiene habits – Make sure you adequately brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once a day. If you are not sure, our dental hygienist can instruct you on the best way to brush and floss.
- Visit your dentist – If you haven’t had a professional dental cleaning in a while (at least once every six months), it’s time to schedule one. During the visit, we will check to see if you have any existing dental problems that could be causing your bad breath.
Eat healthy and practice good oral hygiene. Visit us at least twice a year for a dental cleaning and checkup. This will help ensure that your breath stays fresh and that your teeth and gums stay healthy and happy.
Has it been more than six months since your last checkup? If so, give us a call at (904) 998-1555 today!