Bad Breath: What Causes It and What To Do About It

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is an embarrassing issue that can affect your confidence at work or during social events. This lack of confidence can cause you to avoid close conversations, often leading to feelings of isolation.

If you deal with bad breath, it’s important to know that you’re not alone and that there are many things you can do to address it.

The first step is understanding what causes it.

Why Does My Breath Stink?

The are several reasons why your breath might not be its freshest:

1. Bad Oral Hygiene: If you’re not keeping up with your brushing and flossing, food articles can decay in between your teeth and gums. This will allow bacteria to grow, creating unpleasant odors.

2. Other Oral Health Problems: Odor-causing bacteria also thrives if you have gum disease, cavities, or ill-fitting dental appliances. 

3. Dry Mouth: When your mouth is dry from dehydration, medication, or simply sleeping with your mouth open, odors can linger. Saliva acts as your mouth’s natural cleaner to combat the smell.

4. Your Diet: If you eat a lot of garlic, onions, or too much sugar, your breath can be affected.

5. Other Health Issues: Halitosis can stem from non-dental health issues like sinus infections, acid reflux, diabetes, or even kidney problems. 

Tips for Fresh Breath

If you’re struggling with bad breath, consider these tips for taking control.

Brush and Floss Daily: A clean mouth is a fresh mouth. Be sure to brush at least twice a day and floss to remove any food particles your toothbrush can’t reach.

Stay Hydrated: Make sure you drink enough water each day to help wash away bacteria and keep your mouth from drying out.

Clean Your Tongue: Your tongue is another problem spot for bacteria. Use a toothbrush or tongue scraper to keep it fresh.

Rinse with Mouthwash: Add a good antimicrobial mouthwash to your brushing and flossing routine. Mouthwash is effective for killing bacteria and will give you a quick freshness boost.

Watch What You Eat: Go easy on foods that are known for strong odors. Instead, opt for more crunchy fruits and veggies which naturally clean your teeth and boost saliva production.

Quit Smoking: In addition to posing multiple health risks, smoking is a major cause of bad breath.

When To Seek Help

If the above tips haven’t helped your halitosis, you might be dealing with a more serious condition, like cavities, an infection, or gum disease. A dentist can identify the root cause of your bad breath, provide treatment, and offer tips for prevention. 

Click here to schedule an exam with White Oak Dental, and we’ll help you make sure your smile is as fresh and healthy as it can be.