Effective Strategies to Combat Bad Breath

If you’ve been struggling with bad breath, a condition known as halitosis, you are not alone. Studies show that about 25% to 30% of adults battle with chronic bad breath at any given time. The good news is that lifestyle changes and support from Dr. Jones and his patient-centered team at High Street Dentistry can help get you on track to a fresher, more confident smile. 

What Are the Causes of Bad Breath?

The following is a look at the leading causes of bad breath: 

• Poor Oral Hygiene Practices: Neglecting to brush and floss daily can result in plaque and tartar buildup and create the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria to flourish, leading to bad breath. 
• Certain Foods: Certain foods, including garlic, onions, and some spices, can lead to bad breath. Brushing and mouthwash may provide temporary relief, but the odor will return and persist until the food is eliminated naturally from the body.
• Periodontal Disease: One of the warning signs of periodontal (gum) disease is persistent lingering breath that brushing alone can’t eliminate. Prompt treatment is necessary for lasting relief. 
• Tooth Decay: When tooth decay erodes the tooth enamel and dentin, it creates pits and crevices where food particles and bacteria get trapped. This can lead to the release of foul-smelling sulfur compounds, resulting in unpleasant breath.
• Dry Mouth: Saliva naturally flushes away food debris and bacteria, leaving your smile clean and fresh. Dry mouth, a condition known as xerostomia, allows food debris and bacteria to linger in your mouth, leading to bad breath. 
• Smoking: Smoking is known to cause unpleasant breath. It can also elevate the risk of gum disease and oral infection, further exacerbating your bad breath. 
• Health Conditions: Bad breath can sometimes be linked to tonsil stones, sinus infections, diabetes, acid reflux, and other health issues. Treating or managing these conditions can help provide you with the relief you need. 

How Is Bad Breath Treated or Managed? 

Here are some ways to keep your bad breath in check:

• Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss your teeth regularly and consider rinsing with an antimicrobial mouthwash. Make sure to clean removable dentures thoroughly and don’t forget to brush your tongue, which can harbor odor-causing bacteria. 
• Lifestyle Changes: Limit the consumption of odor-causing foods to keep your breath fresher. We also recommend steering clear of smoking and tobacco products to keep your mouth fresh and enhance your oral and overall health. 
• Stay Hydrated: Sip on water throughout your day to stay hydrated and prevent dry mouth. You may want to chew sugarless gum, especially one containing xylitol, to stimulate saliva production and reduce the risk of halitosis.
• Maintain Regular Dental Exams and Cleanings: Your twice-yearly dental visits help uncover oral health problems that may lead to bad breath. They also allow us to remove plaque and tartar buildup, leaving your mouth clean and fresh. 
• Treating Dental Concerns: If you have cavities, periodontal disease, or other dental health concerns, prompt treatment can help eliminate persistent bad breath. If Dr. Jones suspects that an underlying condition is the cause of your unwelcome mouth odor, he may refer you to your healthcare provider for further investigation. 

Bad Breath Treatment Near Me in Jefferson City, MO

Contact High Street Dentistry to learn more about preventing, treating, and managing bad breath. Dr. Jones and his team will help uncover the cause of your concerns and create a personalized treatment plan to restore your confidence to be up close and personal. We invite you to call us at (573) 636-7432 to schedule an appointment or request one online today!