How Do I Get Rid of Bad Breath?

Many people suffer from halitosis, or chronic bad breath. You don’t want to be known for having bad breath, and determining the cause is usually simple. It’s possible that the cause of bad breath isn’t obvious if you brush, floss, or gargle every day. It’s crucial to figure out the underlying issue that’s causing your bad breath, and finding a solution can be simple.

ONE OF THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF BAD BREATH

Dental hygiene

The first thing that patients should think about is their dental hygiene. Gum or mints are only a temporary fix; the only way to truly get rid of bad breath is to identify the source. Examining your dental hygiene is a good place to start because poor dental hygiene is the leading cause of chronic bad breath. Bad breath is caused by 85 percent of the time by bacteria in the mouth. If you don’t brush and floss on a daily basis, bacteria can build up and cause breath problems. Bacteria eats the leftover food particles in your mouth, leaving a foul odor in your mouth and on your teeth as a result.

Devices

If retainers, dentures, or mouthguards are worn while sleeping, they can trap bacteria or food particles if they are not cleaned properly. This can lead to halitosis, or persistent bad breath. Taking care of your teeth and mouth is critical for your overall and oral health, and it can help you avoid problems like bad breath, which can be embarrassing in public.

Infection or Cavities

Bad breath can occur if you have cavities or an infection in your mouth that has not been treated. It is critical that you visit our office on a regular basis for your dental cleaning and exam. Our highly trained staff can detect problems early on, such as cavities or infections, and prevent them from becoming worse. Bad breath can be caused by problems with the tonsils or throat, which can be caused by an infection such as strep throat. If patients believe they have a problem with their tonsils or throat, they should see their primary care physician.

Dehydration or Dry Mouth

Bad breath is frequently caused by dehydration or a dry mouth. Bacteria and food particles are washed away by saliva and water. When your mouth is dehydrated, saliva production decreases, which can lead to halitosis. Our saliva contains important minerals and proteins that aid in bacterial defense. It is critical to stay hydrated in order to keep our mouths healthy and avoid bad breath.

OTHER POSSIBLE REASONS FOR BAD BREATH

• Diabetes

• Throat or mouth cancer

• Sinus infection

• Digestive issues

• Acid reflux

• Lung infection

• Liver disease

WHAT CAN I DO TO CURE MY BAD BREATH?

• Brush and floss two times a day

• Use an antimicrobial rinse daily

• Tongue scrape daily to remove bacteria

• Remove any devices and clean them thoroughly

• Visit our dental office for regular cleanings and exams

• Review your diet and try and stick to eating healthy foods

• Drink water and stay hydrated

• Avoid tobacco products

ARE YOU SEEKING A SOLUTION FOR CHRONIC BAD BREATH?
There are a slew of easy ways to get rid of bad breath. To discuss your concerns, we encourage you to schedule an appointment for an examination in our office. Our knowledgeable staff can offer advice, and a thorough dental examination can reveal any problems that may be causing chronic bad breath. If you’ve tried simple solutions and your bad breath persists, we recommend scheduling an appointment with your primary care physician.
If you’re looking for a way to get rid of bad breath, we can help. To make an appointment, please contact our office, and one of our friendly staff members will gladly assist you!

Dentist in Westerville