Bad breath is very common, but that doesn’t change the embarrassment and anxiety some people feel due to it. There are many different causes, with many of them being easily treatable. However, in some cases, you might have to see a doctor or dentist.
Common Causes of Bad Breath
There are many possible causes, including the following:
- Certain foods like onions, garlic and spices. These foods enter your bloodstream and are carried to your lungs.
- Dry mouth hurts the production of saliva, which is important in cleansing your mouth. With a decreased production of saliva, you have a higher chance of suffering from this condition.
- Cigarettes and other oral tobacco products increase not only the risk of bad breath but also gum disease.
- Poor dental hygiene is a very common cause of bad breath and can lead to further oral health problems down the line.
- Some medications may contribute by either causing a dry mouth or releasing chemicals after they are broken down.
- Surgical wounds after tooth removal or other types of oral surgery.
What to do About Bad Breath
There are a few home remedies you can take advantage of to prevent bad breath or at least reduce its impact.
- Brush your teeth after you eat.
- Floss at least once a day.
- Brush your tongue.
- Avoid tobacco, coffee, soft drinks or alcohol.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid foods like onions and garlic.
- Get a new toothbrush every 3-4 months.
- Schedule a dental checkup twice a year.
When to See a Doctor or Dentist
If basic lifestyle changes don’t remove the effects of bad breath, you should schedule an appointment with your dentist to find out what the main cause is. If the condition is related to your oral health, your dentist may recommend a certain kind of mouth rinse or toothpaste for you that’s better suited for killing the bacteria in your mouth. Your dentist may also refer you to a periodontist if the bad breath is rooted in gum disease.
There are some cases where bad breath isn’t caused by an oral health issue but instead could be caused by a serious underlying condition. If your dentist suspects this to be the case, he will refer you to a doctor that will work to find the cause of the odor.
Schedule an appointment at O’Fallon Dental Works online or call 636-272-5015.