You brush your teeth every day, twice a day. You avoid garlic and onions. You’ve even started using some of that over-the-counter mouth spray – but no matter what you do, you’re still afflicted with bad breath. This oral problem is embarrassing and unpleasant for you, and is just as uncomfortable for the people around you. What can you do? In this post, the team at Distinctive Dentistry, your superior dentist in Dallas, GA, educates you on the reasons behind bad breath – and what you can do about it.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Dr. Jack Bickford and Dr. Bobby Shirley explain that bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by many contributing factors:
- Potent foods like garlic and onions
- Dry mouth
- Using tobacco products
- Gum disease
- Upper respiratory infections
- Sinus infections
- Diabetes
- A GI tract (gastrointestinal) problem
- Liver problems
- Kidney ailments
What Can I Do To Prevent Bad Breath?
To prevent this awkward and unpalatable condition, use the strategies below to ensure your breath is fresh and clean:
- 2×2 – Brush your teeth gently for two minutes, twice a day. Oral hygiene at home is essential to oral health, including minty fresh breath.
- Floss – Since brushing only takes care of a little over half of your teeth, clean in between them and along the gum line by flossing. This will remove bad breath causing bacteria you can’t see.
- See Your Dentist – Since chronic bad breath may be a sign of a systemic health issue like diabetes, see us at least twice a year for regular checkups and cleanings. A professional oral exam can diagnose many medical conditions, including the underlying reasons for your breath odors.
- Stay Hydrated – Since bacteria thrives in dry mouths and only causes your breath to be more malodorous, drink lots of water to hydrate. The adage of eight glasses a day is a good place to start.
- Use Mouthrinses – There are over-the-counter mouthrinses available that are specifically designed to help keep your mouth lubricated and to increase saliva production. Talk with our team about your options.
- Consider Medications – Many medications can cause dry mouth, which then leads to bad breath. Oftentimes, there are alternative medications without this side effect, and even if you keep taking the same medication, just knowing the reason why your breath is affected can set patients at ease and make it simpler to address this oral health issue.
- Chew Gum – Xylitol is approved by the American Dental Association to help prevent cavities, and chewing gum that’s sweetened with this calorie-free, sugar-free sweetener is a great way to keep your mouth hydrated and eliminate odors from food when you don’t have access to a toothbrush and floss.
Now that you know the reasons behind your bad breath – and what you can do about it – schedule your appointment with Distinctive Dentistry. We’ll give you a reason to smile!
