Top Causes of Bad Breath

If you find that while talking with people that they often put their hand to their nose when you speak, turn away, increase the space between the two of you, or offer you a mint, you might be afflicted with bad breath. Also known as halitosis, if left untreated bad breath can negatively affect your personal relationships, your self-confidence, your professional opportunities, and your overall health. While there are many reasons why someone might be temporarily or chronically afflicted with bad breath, several of the causes can be easily rectified by simply making regular visits to your dentist’s office and diligence in your oral care.

Here’s a look at the top causes of bad breath:

Poor Oral Hygiene

Often the number one cause of bad breath is simply due to poor oral hygiene. If you only brush your teeth once a day, don’t floss between all of your teeth regularly, you’ll probably have bad breath. Sustaining poor oral hygiene over a long period of time can also lead to the growth of bacteria, cavities, tooth loss, gum disease, and complications with other aspects of your overall health and well-being. Although it may initially take discipline and diligence to establish and adhere to a regular oral hygiene routine that is both mindful and comprehensive, your efforts will be worth it. The best way to get started with improving your oral hygiene is to schedule an appointment with your dentist to have your teeth cleaned by a professional dental hygienist and checked by a professional dentist.

Gum Disease

If you are experiencing persistent bad breath, it may be something more than just poor oral hygiene. In some cases, it might be caused by the buildup of plaque on your teeth which can lead to gum disease. The growth of bacteria around the gums causes the formation of toxins which irritate the gums. If gum disease continues unchecked and untreated, it can create cavities and cause damage to the gums and jawbone. A visit to your dentist can let you know whether you are at risk for gum disease, are at the early stages of it, or need to be immediately treated for it.

Dentures

Dentures can cause bad breath if they don’t fit properly and/or are not thoroughly cleaned routinely. If your dentures seem to cause sores in your mouth, hurt, or make it uncomfortable to eat or talk, visit your dentist’s office. Once you and your dentist are certain your dentures fit properly, you must maintain a regular routine of cleaning your dentures, brushing your tongue, and using a mouthwash.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth is a medical condition where your mouth is unable to create the proper amount of saliva it needs. Continuous and natural creation of saliva is necessary because it keeps your mouth moist, neutralizes acids produced by plaque, and washes away dead cells that accumulate on your tongue, gums, and inside your cheeks. If not removed naturally by saliva, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry mouth can also occur as a result of a side effect of medications that you might be taking, radiation treatments around your mouth or neck, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth. While regular sips of fresh water can help alleviate the dryness you might be experiencing in your mouth, a visit to your dentist is recommended to identify the cause and possible treatments available.

Physical ailments or disease in other parts of your body, untreated cavities, chewing tobacco, and various foods, spices, and beverages can also be the culprits that lead to bad breath. Whatever the cause, it’s important to have your teeth cleaned by a professional hygienist and your mouth thoroughly checked by a dentist. Whether you haven’t been to a dentist in a long time or are looking for an established, friendly, and gentle dental practice in Aloha, Oregon, contact Bronitsky Family Dentistry on SW Blanton Street today to start your lifelong commitment to healthy oral hygiene and regular dental care.

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