What Causes Bad Breath and How Can I Treat It?
Bad breath (halitosis) afflicts an estimated one in four people around the world. It is often a source of distress and anxiety to its sufferers. The good news is that improved oral hygiene and simple lifestyle changes usually eliminate bad breath. If, however, the condition continues to be problematic, your trusted team at High Street Dentistry is here to help!
Common Causes of Bad Breath
While there are various causes of halitosis, the majority of cases result from improper dental hygiene practices. Smoking and consuming foods such as garlic and onions also cause bad breath, as do fasting and very low-carbohydrate diet programs. Dry mouth (xerostomia) can also lead to bad breath due to the decreased production of saliva, which naturally cleans the mouth.
Persistent bad breath may indicate problems such as cavities, gum disease, ill-fitting dental appliances, and infections or sores of the mouth. Certain medications and illnesses can also contribute to halitosis.
Prevention and Treatment of Bad Breath
The best way to prevent or treat halitosis is to practice meticulous oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing, and rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash. Don’t forget to clean your tongue, because bacteria, food, and dead cells often build up on the tongue, causing bad breath.
Consider cutting down on foods that cause an unpleasant odor to eliminate bad breath. Also, do your oral and overall health a favor and quit the use of tobacco-based products. Make sure you drink lots of water to keep your mouth moist. A dry mouth can be relieved by chewing sugarless gum or sucking on hard candy to stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food debris and bacteria, keeping foul odors at bay.
If bad breath persists, a visit to High Street Dentistry may be warranted. We will help determine the causes of halitosis and may refer you to your health care provider for further investigations. We recommend scheduling your routine dental exams and cleanings every six months to allow us to detect and treat any conditions in their early stages while easiest to address.
Quality Dental Care Near Me
Contact High Street Dentistry in Jefferson City, MO, to learn more about preventing or managing halitosis. We are proud to offer quality preventative dentistry services designed to keep your mouth fresh and healthy. Call us today.