Learn More About Bad Breath
We all want fresh breath every day, but let’s be honest– it can be challenging to avoid bad breath. It may concern you and keep you from fully enjoying your moments with the people around you.
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common problem that can result from numerous factors, including the foods you eat, oral health conditions, smoking, dry mouth, and medications. While it may not seem like a big deal, this issue may not only hurt your confidence but also be a sign of an underlying health condition.
The good news is that bad breath can often be managed with simple self-care techniques. If these measures don’t work, we suggest seeing the dentist for a professional evaluation and treatment plan. At Hills Family Dental Centre, we deal with identifying the root cause of the problem and employ a comprehensive approach to finding efficient ways to fight bad breath. We want you to get your smile back to its best and keep better dental health.
Visit our dental office to get rid of the unpleasant odor of breath and keep your mouth healthy.
Common Causes of
Bad Breath
Smoking and tobacco products
One of the most common causes of bad breath is tobacco use. When you smoke, the odor of the cigarette products mixes with your saliva and becomes trapped in your mouth. Frequent use can cause an unpleasant taste and odor.
Poor dental hygiene
When you don't brush and floss your teeth twice daily, food debris remains in your mouth and tongue, leading to plaque buildup and unwanted odors.
Type of food
Certain foods, such as onions and garlic, can cause bad breath as you digest them; they break down and make even stronger odors which affect your breath after frequent eating.
Crash diet
Eating programs like fasting and low-calorie may leave you with bad breath. When fats are broken down, they produce chemicals called ketones. Ketones have a strong, unpleasant smell.
Dry mouth
If there's a lack of saliva, acids and dead cells may stay in your mouth and begin to decompose, leading to a foul smell.
Medications
Certain medicines may reduce saliva production, which may contribute to dry mouth. At the same time, some break down in the body and release chemicals that can be transmitted on your breath.
Conditions in or near the mouth
Wounds, tooth decay, gum disease, and similar oral problems may produce a foul smell. Also, infections or inflammation in the nose, throat, or sinuses can cause halitosis.
Health conditions
Some diseases may produce particular chemicals in the body, leading to halitosis. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is another disease that can cause bad breath. It happens when stomach acids are regularly refluxed or brought back up into the throat, causing your breath to smell bad.
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Dental Services That
Can Address Bad Breath
Plaque buildup can develop in the pockets between the gums and teeth, which can cause bad breath.
If the root cause of your bad breath is gum disease, the dentist at Hills Family Dental Centre will perform the appropriate treatment to address the condition of your gums.
A foul smell coming from your mouth may be a sign of decayed teeth.
Cavities are small holes in your teeth that result from tooth decay.
Professional cleaning with the dentist in our office can eliminate debris in the pockets between the gums and teeth, reducing foul odor and leading to fresher breath.
Doing so will eliminate the debris that is stuck between the teeth and gums and control the infection that is present.
The dentist may recommend tooth extraction to remove the affected teeth and avoid infection and bacteria.
When you get a cavity filled with our quality dental fillings, you may notice a difference in your breath as soon as possible.
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Frequently Asked Questions
About Bad Breath
How do I know if I have a bad breath?
It can be difficult to tell if you have bad breath. One way to test it is to cup your hands over your mouth and nose, then smell them. Another way is to lick the inside of your wrist, let it dry for a few seconds, and then smell it. Lastly, you could ask a trusted friend or family member if they’ve noticed anything. You may also notice a change in taste.
If you are concerned about your breath, consult with a dentist. We can help determine the cause of your bad breath and recommend treatment options.
Can mouthwash manage my bad breath?
You can add a mouthwash to your daily oral hygiene routine. There are some instances where brushing alone may not be enough to remove the debris between your teeth or in particular areas in your mouth.
Rinsing with mouthwash can be a great way to reach those places and help fight bacteria. With regular use, you may eliminate bad breath and keep your mouth feeling fresh and clean. Ask your dentist about their recommendations for the best product for you.
Is there medication for bad breath?
There is no one treatment or absolute medicine for bad breath. The approach will depend on what is causing the problem. However, in most cases, good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits are essential for keeping bad breath at bay.
How do I prevent bad breaths in the future?
Generally, it’s normal to experience bad breath. But it’s essential to keep yourself from it to maintain good oral health. Here’s a list of tips to keep your mouth as fresh as possible:
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly.
- Take time to rinse your mouth and try to use an antibacterial mouthwash.
- Keep yourself hydrated.
- Clean your tongue too.
- Instead of mints, opt for chewing gums.
- Take care of your gums.
- Halt smoking cigarettes.
- Schedule regular appointments with the dentist for professional cleanings and have them check your oral health.
