It can happen to the best of us. You are talking with someone when you notice that they move slightly away from you. You do a quick check and realize that your breath is not the freshest.
Sometimes, we can have bad breath because of something we ate, such as garlic, onions, or even dairy products. But, if the problem is persistent, you may want to know what causes your bad breath and what you can do about it.
Here's what you need to know.
Bad breath, known as halitosis in medical terms, can be a sign that something more serious is going on and you need to visit your dentist or doctor to identify the cause.
In most cases, bad breath is the result of poor oral hygiene and a quick visit to the dentist might help. However, if your oral health is generally good, then you may want to look into it to determine why your breath has a foul odor.
Causes of bad breath can include:
Saliva isn't there just to help you chew and swallow your food. It also plays a crucial role in keeping your mouth clean and removing food particles from your teeth. But, if you have a dry mouth, then your glands aren't producing enough saliva, which means that more food particles accumulate on your teeth and tongue. As bacteria feed on these particles, they create acids that can give your breath an intense stench.
As we said, this is one of the main causes of bad breath. Brushing and flossing daily, as well as using mouthwash to rinse any food particles trapped between your teeth are essential to good oral hygiene and a fresh breath. This way, you reduce bacteria accumulation, reduce the risk of plaque and tartar, as well as the risk of developing cavities and gum disease.
Some medications can cause dry mouth or release chemicals that can cause bad breath. Check with your doctor if you suspect this may be the case and ask if they can give you a replacement.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a condition that affects the digestive system. If you have GERD, then the stomach acid comes back up to the esophagus, making your breath smellier than normal.
Metabolic disorders, infections, mouth and throat conditions, and diabetes are some of the reasons that can affect a person’s breath and can lead to halitosis.
If you have bad breath and know it is not medically related, then you should come to We Care Dental Care for a check-up. Dr. Benjamin Burkitt will examine your teeth, determine the cause of your bad breath, clean your mouth, and give you some tips to keep your oral health in check.
If you want to meet Dr. Burkitt and the team, contact us today and book an appointment.