Bad Breath Causes and Treatments: Dealing with Halitosis
At Orchard, DDS in Corpus Christi, we know that good general dentistry involves proper treatment, prevention, and patient education. We abide by this approach for all patients and hope to give them the smiles that they have always wanted.
With that in mind, we want to look at some common causes of bad breath (halitosis) and how it can be treated, managed, and prevented.
Bad Breath Caused by Oral Bacteria
Oral bacteria is one of the most common causes of bad breath. This bacteria naturally occurs in the mouth, feeding on food particles and producing foul odors in the process. Oral bacteria can also lead to another cause of bad breath…
Bad Breath Caused by Tooth Decay and Gum Disease
Tooth decay and gum disease are two other common causes of bad breath, both of which are the result of oral bacteria. In the case of tooth decay, the bacteria produces plaque that clings to the teeth and damages tooth structure, and in the case of tooth decay, the bacteria infects the soft tissues of the mouth.
Bad Breath Caused by Smoking and Tobacco Products
Smoking and the use of tobacco products is bad for your health, and it does no favors for your breath either. Bad breath is the least of your worries with tobacco products, however, so it just becomes another good reason for you to quit.
Bad Breath Caused by Certain Foods and Beverages
As you probably know by now, certain foods and beverages are more likely to make your breath unpleasant. Some of these problem items include:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Coffee
- Fish
- Garlic
- Onions
- Spicy foods
Bad Breath Made Worse by Dry Mouth
Dry mouth means you do not produce enough saliva. It’s an uncomfortable condition that makes eating and speaking difficult, and it can also lead to bad breath since the dead cells in the mouth are not swept away and instead allowed to fester.
Bad Breath as a Symptom of Various Health Conditions
Health problems that involve the lungs, the digestive tract, the sinuses, or the throat have multiple symptoms, and among them is bad breath. If you notice chronic bad breath for some time coupled with other aches and pains in the body, be sure to visit your doctor to get the help that you need.
Treating Bad Breath
When not caused by systemic conditions, the best treatments for bad breath typically involve treating the tooth decay or gum disease, or getting the oral bacteria under control with special antiseptic rinses. The ideal treatment for you can be discussed during a dental visit.
If you suffer from dry mouth that makes your bad breath worse, there are artificial saliva products out there that can promote moisture and address these issues.
Bad Breath Prevention Tips
To fight bad breath, consider the following:
- Mask odors with sugar-free mints and chewing gum
- Stay hydrated through the day by drinking water
- Avoid breathing through your mouth
- Brush your teeth at least twice a day
- Floss your teeth at least once a night
- Visit your dentist regularly for routine checkups
Schedule a Consultation at Orchard, DDS
If you would like to learn more about how you can have great dental health and a beautiful smile, be sure to contact our cosmetic and restorative dentistry center today. The team at Orchard, DDS looks forward to your visit and helping you make the best decisions when it comes to your dental health and wellness.