Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, can be caused by a wide number of factors. From problems with your oral hygiene to underlying health conditions, halitosis has a range of causes and the available treatments differ depending on them. In this article, we will be discussing the common causes of bad breath, and the treatments and tips on how to rid yourself of this problem.
We know bad breath can be an embarrassing topic, but it’s important to see a dentist if your bad breath persists, as it could indicate dental problems such as cavities and decay. Below are some of the causes and what you can do to prevent or reduce bad breath.
The most common causes of bad breath
Addressing the root cause of bad breath is how to rid yourself of the issue and prevent it from happening in the future. Here’s what could be causing halitosis:
Poor oral hygiene: One of the most common causes of bad breath is through poor oral hygiene. This is caused by food particles remaining in the mouth, causing an unpleasant odour. Luckily, there is an easy fix to this cause. If you begin practising better oral hygiene habits you should notice a significant difference.
To treat bad breath you should start by brushing thoroughly twice a day, flossing daily to remove hard-to-reach food particles, and use mouthwash for a thorough clean. If there is no improvement then it is important to visit your dentist as you could have dental problems that require treatment.
Dental problems: Periodontal diseases (gum disease), cavities, tooth decay, and infections can all result in bath breath. These underlying dental problems need to be addressed as soon as possible, to prevent further damage to your teeth and gums, as well as helping with bad breath.
When you visit your dentist they will be able to offer a variety of services such as professional cleanings and suggesting proper oral hygiene practices.
Dry mouth: Medically known as xerostomia, dry mouth is a common cause of bad breath. This is due to the saliva glands on the mouth not functioning properly, resulting in dry mouth. Xerostomia has several causes, from ageing to medical conditions. Treatment for dry mouth is dependent on the cause, but for most people staying hydrated helps.
Diet: Certain food choices can temporarily cause bad breath. When consuming foods such as onion and garlic, it’s best to practise good oral hygiene after. This will reduce bad breath.
Treating bad breath
If you’re concerned that you may have halitosis, you should visit your dental care provider. Bad breath can be caused by more serious dental problems such as tooth decay and gum disease, so it’s important you visit your dentist to get checked out. Gum disease and tooth decay can become severe and cause more serious dental problems.
As well as visiting your dentist regularly, you should always practise good oral hygiene such as flossing, brushing twice a day, and using mouthwash. This should prevent bad breath and keep your gums and teeth healthy.