If you regularly suffer from bad breath, it may be time to see a dentist. While the reasons for bad odors vary, many of them are easily treatable at a family dentistry office. A doctor will determine the cause and provide a solution to get your oral health back on track. As you prepare for the appointment, here is a brief guide to typical causes of the condition and helpful care options. 

Common Causes 

Typical reasons for bad breath are dry mouth and poor oral hygiene. Smoking, medications, and conditions like sleep apnea may cause the mouth to create less saliva. Lack of moisture encourages both a poor odor and harmful plaque development.

Without regular brushing and flossing to remove tartar and food particles, germs can also lead to the smell. Visit the family dentist for a cleaning and exam to rid of these symptoms. They will check for signs of gum disease and tooth decay, which can contribute to chronic bad breath. 

Best Treatments 

Treatment for bad breath depends on the cause. If a teeth cleaning does not help, the dentist may recommend replacing restorations or performing a tooth extraction to remove disease or decay.

The physician may also recommend a moisturizing or antibacterial mouthwash. These rinses increase saliva production and remove germs from the oral cavity. Special toothpaste is also available to prevent plaque buildup. Speak with an oral care specialist about which products are right for your needs. 

Bad breath is unpleasant, so make an appointment for dental care to eliminate the symptoms and enjoy better health. If you are a new patient, Dr. David K. Skeels in Rochester, NY, offers free initial consultations and exams in a calm, relaxed, and friendly atmosphere. To schedule a visit to the dentist, call (585) 467-7000 today. For information about his preventative and cosmetic dentistry services, visit the practice online.