Causes of Bad Breath/Halitosis

Let’s face it – bad breath is a turn-off. A foul scent coming from your mouth discourages intimacy and often causes embarrassment or shame. There are many conditions that can cause this – from tobacco use and smoking to more severe cases of periodontitis – but the good news is this is something you can control.

No matter the cause of your bad breath, there are many things you can do to fix the issue. Read our complete guide to getting rid of bad breath and don’t forget to schedule a visit with your dentist .

Bad breath, also known as halitosis , can occur due to bad habits and sometimes from medical conditions. Bacteria is the number one cause of halitosis. Some bacteria occur naturally in your mouth while other bacteria are a byproduct of eating. Gum disease, tobacco use and even certain foods such as garlic or onions are also major contributors.

While sometimes bad breath can be from a medical condition such as periodontitis , most of the time it’s a problem that is within your realm of control. If halitosis is plaguing you, here are some basic tips to incorporate into your oral care routine:

Most bad breath is caused by bacteria and your tongue is laden with it. Invest in a tongue scraper or use your toothbrush to keep your tongue clean. If you see a white or brown coating on your tongue, you’re looking at bacteria that could lead to halitosis.

While brushing might be one of the first things you do every morning when you wake up, often by the time night rolls along people forget or are too tired to remember to brush.

But brushing twice a day, at a minimum, helps keep bacteria and plaque in check thus preventing halitosis and cavities. Flossing is equally important and often skipped. If you have trouble remembering, set an alarm on your phone or leave yourself reminder notes.

The food you eat can also contribute to bad breath. Lessen your intake of sugar and substitute it with healthy, crunchy options that take longer to chew such as apples or carrots. These foods are not only good for you, but the added chewing increases saliva flow which helps halitosis.

If you’re a smoker, here’s yet another reason to quit . Smoking is one of the biggest culprits of bad breath. For your oral and overall health, do your best to quit smoking. It can take several months to form a new habit, even longer to break a bad one. The goal is to stay consistent.

The most important tip is also the simplest: make an appointment with your dentist. Regular dental checkups are your first line of defense against halitosis and can also stave off more serious conditions such as periodontitis. At a minimum, you should strive to get your teeth checked and cleaned every six months.

At your appointment, your dentist will show you the proper brushing technique to help fix any issues you may have missed. A visual examination coupled with periodic x-rays will give your doctor a good summary of your oral health and help you monitor any areas of concern before they turn into bigger problems with your mouth.

If you’ve been plagued with bad breath or other issues with your teeth and gums, it’s time to schedule a visit with All Smiles Dentistry. The friendly, compassionate doctors at All Smiles can teach you tips and tricks to banish bad breath and keep your smile pearly white. Contact our clinic today to schedule an appointment with our dentist .

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