Understanding And Getting Rid Of Bad Breath

Does bad breath got you down? Halitosis, or chronic bad breath, can come from a variety of causes. The following are some of the things can lead to this embarrassing problem, along with what you can do to reverse the issue.

Bacteria – The Main Cause of Bad Breath

The warm, moist environment of your mouth is the perfect place for bacteria to thrive. Add in the fact that there is a constant supply of food for the bacteria and you can end up with a major odor issue. Most bad breath problems begin with bacteria, it's just that the other problems below make it so even more bacteria can thrive inside your mouth.

Major Causes of Bacteria Bloom and Halitosis

The following are all conditions that can exacerbate bad breath:

  • Food. Certain foods have their own odors, like garlic or onions, that can lead to short-term bad breath. The long-term problems occur when food gets stuck between the teeth and feeds odor-causing bacteria.

  • Dry mouth. A variety of things can cause dry mouth, including dehydration, certain medications, hormonal changes, and mouth breathing. Without saliva to constantly rinse out the food particles and some of the bacteria, odors can increase.

  • Periodontal diseases. This includes gingivitis and periodontitis, or the diseases of the gums. Increased plaque buildup due to gum disease also allows larger bacterial colonies to thrive and stink up your mouth.

  • Secondary illnesses or infections. Sometimes the infection isn't in your mouth, that is just where the odor surfaces. These culprits can include sinus infections, intestinal or stomach problems, or diabetes.

What to Do

Your first step towards conquering halitosis begins with good dental hygiene. Brush at least twice a day, making sure to get both the front of and the back of all of your teeth, along with the top surfaces of the molars. Also, make sure you are flossing at least once a day so food particles and bacteria don't thrive between your teeth. Finish off each brushing session by either brushing your tongue or using a tongue scraper tool to remove bacterial film.

Next, make an appointment with your dentist. They can do a thorough cleaning to make sure there is no plaque trapping smelly bacteria. If gum disease is an issue, your dentist will begin treatment. If for some reason your dentist cannot find a dental reason for the bad breath, they may advise you to see your doctor to rule out other medical conditions. Otherwise, a commitment to good dental care at home and regular dental cleanings should help conquer your halitosis for good.

For dental care, contact a dentist such as Michael C. Cordora DDS, PLLC. 


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