How Do You Fix Bad Breath?

Halitosis, or bad breath, is a common but embarrassing dental issue. In many cases, bad breath can be caused by poor oral hygiene or oral bacteria that thrive on food particles trapped in your teeth. In addition to hygiene, bad breath can also be caused by certain medical conditions, such as sinus infections. However, if bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene and is not the result of a medical condition, your dentist may be able to help you. Read our blog to learn more about how to prevent bad breath. 

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is an unpleasant smell from the mouth. Bad breath is caused by a variety of factors. The most common cause is bacteria. When you don't brush and floss regularly, you allow plaque buildup on and between your teeth. Plaque is a mixture of food particles, saliva, and bacteria. Bacteria feed on sugars in food particles. As they feed, they release sulfur compounds as a waste product. These sulfur compounds are what cause bad breath.

Other causes include dry mouth, gum disease, sinus and throat infections, tooth decay, and tobacco use. Bad breath can also be the result of:

• Smoking
• Certain foods (garlic, onions, etc.)
• Certain drinks (coffee, tea, etc.)
• Digestive issues (gas, acid reflux, etc.)
• Medical conditions
• Dry sinuses
• Poor oral hygiene

How Can I Prevent Bad Breath?

One major cause of bad breath is bacteria. Bacteria thrive in the mouth, especially around the back of the tongue. Poor oral hygiene allows these bacteria to flourish, which can contribute to bad breath.

Prevention starts with proper oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once a day will help remove food particles and bacteria from your mouth. You should also use a tongue scraper to clean the back of your tongue. This helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria. You should also rinse your mouth with water after you consume foods and beverages that are likely to produce odors.

If you're experiencing chronic bad breath, it's important to see your dentist. They'll be able to recommend a treatment plan that may include additional oral care at home, such as dental products that can help with dry mouth.

What Treatment Options Are Available For Bad Breath?

The good news is that there are steps you can take to get rid of halitosis.

First, try changing your diet. If brushing your teeth isn't helping, then consider getting a professional cleaning by a dentist. This will help remove any excess plaque or tartar on your teeth, which can also contribute to bad breath.

If basic treatments aren't helping, then you should consider getting a prescription for a mouthwash that can help. If your bad breath is caused by dry mouth, your dentist can help by recommending a saliva substitute.

Signature Smiles, located in Louisville, and Designing Smiles, located in Frankfort, Kentucky, have expert dentists who offer the best dental care facilities to patients with the help of modern amenities. Call us at 502 326-1800 and book an appointment with our practice to know more about our dental care services.