What Are the Culprits of Bad Breath?
Are you self-conscious about the smell of your breath? We all experience bad breath from time to time, especially after eating certain foods such as garlic. However, after a thorough brushing and the use of dental floss, the problem is usually remedied. If you find that you are experiencing frequent bad breath, your mouth could be warning you that you may have an issue with your oral health.
Causes of Bad Breath
Aside from food, there are a number of issues that can cause bad breath, such as:
Improper Dental Hygiene
Bacteria that remains in the mouth for an extended period of time can create an unpleasant odor. When teeth are not cleaned properly using appropriate brushing techniques and dental floss, plaque builds up on and between the teeth. Not only does this lead to bad breath, but it can also cause tooth decay and gum disease.
Dry Mouth
When your mouth does not make enough saliva, you may experience dry mouth. Saliva helps to wash away the bacteria that remains in the mouth. You may experience dry mouth when first waking in the morning. Dry mouth can be caused by mouth breathing, certain medications or medical treatments, and aging. If you experience dry mouth, drinking plenty of water can help.
Smoking
For many years, we have been learning about the negative effects of smoking on your health. Tobacco products also cause bad breath and can lead to gum disease, stained teeth, and other complications.
Medical Issues
On occasion, patients have excellent oral health, and bad breath is an indication of another medical issue. Conditions such as acid reflux, sinus infection, and diabetes can lead to issues with bad breath.
If you are located in the Denton, MD area and are experiencing bad breath, we suggest that you make an appointment as soon as possible to rule out any concerns mentioned above. We look forward to helping you fix your oral health.
