Bad breath can be caused by poor oral hygiene, certain foods and drinks, smoking and tobacco use, dry mouth, gum disease, and certain medical conditions.
Dental Choice's
Bad Breath Care
Nearly half of the population experiences some degree of bad breath, and a significant number of people have chronic halitosis. Halitosis was rated as one of the top three unappealing qualities in a potential partner. Over half of those affected by bad breath report feeling depressed due to their condition. It’s crucial to address bad breath at its source instead of just masking it.
Various factors can cause bad breath, such as consuming certain foods, particularly garlic and onions, using alcohol or cigarettes, poor oral hygiene, gum disease, diabetes, dry mouth, sinus or throat infections, lung infections, kidney or liver failure, and gastrointestinal issues.
Our experienced dentists at Dental Choice in Calgary, Edmonton, and Red Deer are equipped to help patients effectively manage and treat bad breath.
What are the main
Causes of Bad Breath?
There are several potential causes of bad breath, some of the most common causes include:
- Poor oral hygiene – inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the buildup of food particles and bacteria in the mouth.
- Consuming certain foods and drinks – garlic, onions, coffee, and alcohol can all contribute to unpleasant breath.
- Smoking and tobacco use – not only does tobacco use lead to bad breath, but it can also increase the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.
- Gum disease – an infection in the gums can cause bad breath as bacteria grow and produce odor.
- Medical conditions – some medical conditions, such as sinus infections, diabetes, and liver or kidney disease, can contribute to bad breath.
It’s important to address bad breath at its source to effectively manage and treat the condition.
How to
Eliminate Bad Breath
The most common treatment solutions to eliminate bad breath include:
- Practicing good oral hygiene – brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash can help remove food particles and bacteria from the mouth.
- Drinking plenty of water – staying hydrated can help keep the mouth moist and prevent dry mouth.
- Quitting smoking and tobacco use – eliminating tobacco use can help improve overall oral health and eliminate bad breath.
- Treating gum disease – addressing any underlying gum infections can help eliminate bad breath caused by bacteria.
- Adjusting your diet – avoiding foods and drinks that are known to cause bad breath can be helpful.
- Using mouthwash and breath fresheners – products containing antibacterial agents and odor-neutralizing ingredients can help eliminate bad breath in the short-term.
It’s important to talk to a dental professional if bad breath persists despite practicing good oral hygiene and making lifestyle changes. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bad Breath
What causes bad breath?
How can I prevent bad breath?
Practicing good oral hygiene, drinking plenty of water, avoiding certain foods and drinks, and quitting smoking can help prevent bad breath.
Is bad breath a sign of a serious medical condition?
In some cases, bad breath can be a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition, such as sinus infections, liver or kidney disease, or certain cancers. It’s important to talk to a dental or medical professional if bad breath persists.
Can medications cause bad breath?
Yes, some medications can cause dry mouth, which can contribute to bad breath. Talk to your doctor or dentist if you’re concerned about the side effects of your medication.
How do I know if I have bad breath?
You may not be able to detect bad breath on your own, but others around you may notice. One way to check is to floss and then smell the floss. You can also ask a trusted friend or family member for their opinion.
Can bad breath be cured?
In many cases, bad breath can be effectively treated and eliminated by addressing its underlying cause, such as improving oral hygiene, treating gum disease, or adjusting medication use.
How can I treat bad breath in the short-term?
Mouthwash, breath fresheners, and sugarless gum can help mask bad breath in the short-term. However, it’s important to address the underlying cause for long-term relief.
Schedule A Consultation & Eliminate Your Bad Breath!
If you are interested in eliminating your bad breath, schedule a consultation with one of our experienced dentists at Dental Choice today!