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.
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.