Bad Breath 101: Everything You Need to Know
Almost everyone experiences bad breath, especially in the morning. We have a host of Sulphur-producing bacteria found in the tongue and throat that breaks down food when you are sleeping (if you don’t brush before sleeping). This will lead to the production of Sulphur, which often has a bad odor, and that is the primary cause of morning breath. However, there are some people—approximately 30 percent—that suffer from halitosis or chronic bad breath. Halitosis can cause distress and discomfort, negatively impacts your relationship and quality of life, and you may want to consider bad breath treatment near you.
What Causes Bad Breath
Several causes can trigger bad breath and they include?
- Poor hygiene
Our oral cavity plays host to millions of bacteria that are important in breaking down food and produces an acid solution as a result. The acid solution attacks the enamel and erodes it, causing cavities and decay to form. Bad breath is a common symptom of decay and gum infection.
Also, if you fail to brush your teeth and gum properly, plaques can accumulate on the teeth and this can produce a bad odor.
Other habits like smoking cigars or cigarettes make bad odor even worse.
- Strong food and beverages
Eating food with onion and garlic or other foods with a strong odor can cause bad breath. During digestion, the stomach absorbs the oils from these foods that can pass into your bloodstream. This will cause a bad odor after about 72 hours. Also, taking beverages like coffee, and tea can also contribute to bad breath.
- Dry mouth
A dry mouth is a situation where you have low production of saliva. Saliva is vital to keeping your mouth clean as it off the food particles. Lack or low levels of saliva production will cause food particles to stick between the gums and teeth. This not only causes plaques but also increases the risk of decay.
Dry mouth can be caused by certain treatments, medication, or sleeping with your mouth open.
- Gum disease
Buildup tartar is the primary cause of gum disease. When you don’t brush properly or get professional teeth cleaning, tartar can accumulate in between the gums. Calculus carries bacteria that can cause the gums to recede and also pockets to form. These gum pockets trap food and bacteria that produce bad breath.
- Disease
Bad breath can also be a sign of certain diseases like diabetes or kidney problems. If you have a fishy smell it could be a sign of kidney or liver problems. Early signs of diabetes or high blood sugar can be characterized by a fruity breath.
GERD or Gastroesophageal Reflux Disorder can cause contents of the stomach to flow back to the mouth. This increases acid in the mouth, which attacks the teeth and also causes bad breath.
How Can You Get Rid of Halitosis?
The treatment of halitosis will vary based on the cause of bad breath. If there is an underlying cause, the dentist may refer you to your family doctor to have the condition addressed first. Some of the treatment strategies that can be used include:
- Fluoride toothpaste and mouth rinses. If bacterial buildup is the cause of bad breath, the dentist may recommend toothpaste or an antibacterial mouth rinse that will kill bacteria in the mouth.
- Treating the underlying dental disease. The dentist may refer you to a periodontist if you have gum disease. He will do a deep clean to get rid of tartar and also root planning.
- Fixing the dental restorations. Sometimes restorations like veneers, crowns, and dentures may trap food and cause bad breath. Visiting the best cosmetic dentist in Philly will help to fix the problem and get rid of the bad breath.
How Can You Prevent Bad Breath?
Maintaining proper hygiene can help get rid of plaques and bad breath. Ensure you brush, floss your gums and clean the tongue. Don’t forget to clean the dentures and other dental appliances to prevent plaque buildup.
Schedule an Appointment
Visit the Dental Spa for assessment if you suspect you have bad breath.