Bad breath is one of the causes for improper oral hygiene and some medical conditions! And may cause embarrassment to many people. Using mouthwashes and toothpastes mask the bad breath without addressing the cause of the problem.
Which dental problems cause bad breath?
Many dental problems could be the reason behind bad breath (Halitosis), such as:
- Dry mouth (Xerostomia), as low saliva production increases the risk of dental bacterial infections! This is because saliva has a main role in moisturizing the mouth, and neutralizing acids. Also, saliva eliminates dead cells that are accumulated on the gum, tongue and cheeks. Dry mouth can result from various medications or some medical cases.
- Gingivitis (Gum infection) may be the cause for bad breath, as it is a result of plaque formation between teeth!
- Cracked fillings, as it causes food stuck between teeth that are difficult to clean with a toothbrush! These food particles increase the risk of bacterial infection incidence and bad breath.
- Improper oral hygiene, if you don’t brush or floss your teeth regularly, food particles will remain and microbes will build up on your tongue and between teeth! And this causes unpleasant-smelling breath.
- Tobacco use, as cigarettes affect your dental health by bringing up volatile components into blood, also they cause low saliva production that is considered a reason for bad breath.
How to maintain pleasant smelling breath
The most important thing to keep away bad breath smelling is to maintain your dental health by following proper oral hygiene techniques such as:
- Brush your teeth with a toothpaste that has fluoride, twice daily using a soft toothbrush that cleans areas that are difficult to reach, and clean your tongue and tooth.
- Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months, or after illness.
- If you wear denture or retainer, remove it every night and make sure to clean it before placing it again in your mouth.
- Use antibacterial mouthwash.
- Don’t forget to drink your daily intake of fluids and water to prevent dry mouth.
- Enhance saliva’s production by chewing sugar free gum to maintain moisture in the mouth.
- Try to avoid caffeine and tobacco as they increase dryness in your mouth.
- Maintain a healthy food intake by eating more fruits and vegetables and less meat! Carrots, apples and celery help in clearing food particles and odor-causing plaque.
Foods that cause bad breath
The first breaking down process for food is in the mouth, after that food particles will be absorbed into the bloodstream and enter the lungs, influencing exhaled air! That’s why eating foods with strong odors like garlic or onions cause bad breath. Cleaning your mouth using a toothbrush or mouthwash will reduce the odor temporarily! Cheese, spices, orange juice and soda drinks commonly cause bad breath.
Bad breath may be a result for other dental diseases that should be treated, that’s why regular checkups with the dentist is a must to avoid dental problems.
