Do you often find yourself shying away from conversations, fearing that your breath might offend others? Bad breath, or halitosis, can be a distressing general dentistry condition that affects many of us at some point in our lives. Understanding the common causes of bad breath is the first step toward combating it and regaining your confidence.
Is halitosis keeping you from living your best life? Let Dr. Amol Shergill at Wren Street Dental in Mission, BC, help. Our trusted team can get to the bottom of the condition and help you find solutions that work best for you. Call (604) 820-8702 now for compassionate, judgment-free care.
Now, let’s explore seven common causes of bad breath.
Poor Oral Hygiene
It’s no secret that neglecting your oral hygiene can lead to unpleasant odors coming from your mouth. When food particles linger in your mouth, bacteria feast on them, releasing foul-smelling gases.
To keep these stinky bacteria at bay, our Mission, BC, dentist recommends:
- Cleaning your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and a soft-bristled brush
- Flossing daily
- Rinsing with antimicrobial mouthwash
Gum Disease
Gingivitis and periodontitis are gum diseases caused by bacterial infections. These infections not only damage your gums and teeth but also contribute to halitosis.
As bacteria accumulate in the pockets formed between your gums and teeth, they release a volatile sulfur compound responsible for bad breath. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential for preventing and treating gum disease.
Dry Mouth
Saliva plays a crucial role in whisking away food particles and combating acids in your mouth. When saliva production decreases (typically due to factors like medication, dehydration, or certain medical conditions), dry mouth ensues.
Without an adequate saliva flow, bacteria thrive, leading to bad breath. Stay adequately hydrated, chomp on sugar-free gum, or try saliva substitutes to ease dry mouth symptoms.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Besides causing numerous health problems, smoking and tobacco use also wreak havoc on your breath. The chemicals in tobacco products not only leave a lingering smell but also promote bacterial growth in your mouth.
Quitting smoking not only improves your breath but also enhances your overall health.
Dietary Habits
What you eat can significantly impact your breath. Foods with strong odors like garlic, onions, and certain spices contain volatile compounds that linger in your mouth and are absorbed into your bloodstream, eventually affecting your breath.
Additionally, crash dieting or fasting can lead to ketosis, a metabolic state characterized by foul-smelling breath.
Opt for a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to keep your breath fresh.
Medical Conditions
Sometimes, bad breath can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Respiratory infections, sinusitis, diabetes, liver or kidney diseases, and acid reflux are among the conditions that can cause halitosis.
If you experience persistent bad breath despite maintaining good oral hygiene, consult Dr. Shergill to rule out any underlying health issues.
Poorly Fitted Dental Appliances
Wonky dentures, dental braces, or oral appliances can harbor food particles and bacteria, causing bad breath.
Ensure that your dental appliances are properly fitted and clean them regularly to prevent odor-causing bacteria from multiplying.
Halitosis Treatment in Mission, BC
These are just seven common causes of bad breath, but several factors can influence the odor of your oral cavity. If you want to learn more about halitosis or explore treatment options, contact Wren Street Dental today. Request appointments with Dr. Shergill online or at (604) 820-8702.
