The most likely cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. It’s one of the most common dental concerns we see in our office. However, there may be hidden causes that will lead to halitosis, the clinical name for bad breath. If you are suffering from halitosis, it is probably affecting every aspect of your life, and you need to take action. In most cases, your dentist will find an underlying oral health issue that is causing it. Dr. S. Jeremy Tu is a local dentist who helps patients treat their bad breath in North Liberty, IA.
What Causes Bad Breath?
While poor dental health habits are the most likely cause of your bad breath, there may be other issues. This is why you should schedule an appointment with your dentist if you suffer from chronic halitosis. Common causes of bad breath include:
Poor Oral Hygiene
The most likely cause of your bad breath is poor oral hygiene practices. If you do not care for your teeth and gums properly, this will lead to the buildup of bacteria in your mouth. Bacteria naturally thrives in your mouth by feeding off of the food particles left behind. If you fail to brush and floss daily, this bacteria will release foul-smelling gases leading to bad breath.
Food Choices
The food you choose to eat could lead to bad breath. Certain kinds of food, including garlic, onions, strong spices, and fish contain compounds that can lead to bad breath. However, it tends to be temporary and is not harmful. If you find yourself dealing with bad breath after eating certain kinds of food, you may need to simply eliminate those foods.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
If your mouth is very dry and you are thirsty all the time, you may have a condition known as dry mouth or xerostomia. Here, your mouth does not make enough saliva. Reduced saliva flow is caused by taking certain medications, mouth breathing, or certain medical conditions. This leads to bad breath because saliva helps keep the mouth clean. Saliva neutralizes acids in the mouth and washes away bacteria.
Dental Problems
Patients with bad oral hygiene habits are at risk of developing several types of dental issues, such as gum disease, tooth decay, and oral infections. A dental disease or problem creates an environment where bacteria will thrive and multiply. Any type of infection inside the mouth can cause foul-smelling breath.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Tobacco use and smoking are bad habits that can harm your health and lead to chronic halitosis. This nasty habit will also increase your chances of developing gum disease doubling your chances having bad breath.
Medical Conditions
Unfortunately, bad breath can also stem from diseases and be difficult to control. Medical conditions such as respiratory infections, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and liver or kidney diseases can lead to bad breath.
What Can My Dentist Do For My Bad Breath
- Professional Dental Cleanings: Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings by a dental hygienist help remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the bacterial load in the mouth.
- Treat Dental Problems: If you have a dental problem such as gum disease, tooth decay, or other oral health problems, it is important to treat is as soon as possible. There are several treatments your dentist may offer to help treat your bad breath in North Liberty, IA including dental fillings and periodontal therapy.
- Saliva Stimulating Treatments: Patients with dry mouth can benefit from saliva-stimulating treatments. Dr. Tu will recommend the best treatment or over the counter product for you.
- Oral Hygiene Instruction: Your dentist will teach you the correct techniques and tools to use at home to properly care for your oral hygiene.
What Can I Do For My Bad Breath
- Maintain Regular Dental Visits: Never skip your dentist appointments. Regular check-ups are crucial for early diagnosis and treatment of all oral health issues that contribute to bad breath. We will also clean your teeth at each visit.
- Practicing Good Oral Hygiene: Brush your teeth at least twice a day with fluoride based toothpaste. You should also floss at least once a day to remove food particles that are stuck between your teeth. These habits will remove plaque, bacteria, and food that cause bad breath.
- Live a Healthy Lifestyle: Simply living a healthy lifestyle can reduce most causes of halitosis. Watching your diet and limiting strong-smelling foods, avoiding tobacco and quit smoking, and staying hydrated will help control temporary bad breath. If you suffer from certain medical conditions that give you bad breath despite good oral hygiene, you should seek the necessary medical care.
Bad Breath FAQs
Is your bad breath from inadequate oral hygiene, or is it something more serious? Learn more below.
How can I tell if I have bad breath?
It can be difficult to detect your own bad breath, but there are a few ways to check. You can lick the inside of your wrist, wait a few seconds, then smell it. Flossing and smelling the used floss may also give you an idea. Ultimately, a dentist or trusted friend can give you the most honest feedback.
What is morning breath, and why does it happen?
Morning breath occurs because saliva flow decreases during sleep, allowing bacteria to multiply. This results in the production of volatile sulfur compounds that cause odor. People who breathe through their mouths or snore may have worse morning breath due to dryness. Brushing before bed and staying hydrated can help minimize it.
How does dry mouth contribute to bad breath?
Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria that cause odor. When your mouth is dry, this cleansing process slows down, allowing bacteria to flourish. Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, dehydration, or breathing through your mouth. Staying hydrated and using mouth-moisturizing products can help.
Can bad breath be a sign of a serious health problem?
Yes, persistent bad breath may indicate an underlying medical condition such as sinus infections, respiratory issues, diabetes, or gastrointestinal disorders. If your breath doesn’t improve with good oral hygiene, it’s important to talk to your dentist. Early detection of these conditions can prevent complications. We can help determine if the issue is oral or systemic.
What are tonsil stones, and how do they affect breath?
Tonsil stones are small, hard deposits that form in the tonsils’ crevices from trapped food particles, bacteria, and dead cells. They often emit a very foul odor and can contribute to chronic bad breath. Some people can see or feel them in the back of their throat. They may require removal by a dental professional if persistent.
When should I see a dentist about bad breath?
You should call our office if your bad breath doesn’t improve with daily brushing, flossing, and tongue cleaning. Persistent halitosis could be a sign of gum disease, infection, or other dental issues. We can identify the cause and recommend the most suitable treatment.
Seek Treatment for Your Bad Breath in North Liberty, IA
If you suffer from bad breath in North Liberty, IA Dr. Tu can help you treat it and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to book your appointment or request an appointment online.