If you consume a dish containing onions and garlic or simply haven’t brushed your teeth all day, it’s natural for your breath to be less than fresh. When you have persistent bad breath, though, it could indicate an underlying health problem. Below, the family dentistry team at Cincinnati, OH’s, Lowitz & Meier shares a few of the most common causes of halitosis below.

Family Dentistry Office on 3 Common Causes of Bad Breath 

1. Tobacco Use

Cigarettes and cigars have a distinct odor that can linger in the mouth—and on your clothes and hair—long after your last puff. Since tobacco also increases the risk of cancer, it is essential for smokers to schedule regular oral exams at their dentist office as a preventive measure. You can expect your family dentistry team to encourage you to quit at every appointment, but an empathetic provider will understand how challenging it can be and will do everything possible to maintain your smile in the meantime. 

2. Certain Medications

Saliva rinses the mouth of food particles and bacteria, which means medications that cause dry mouth can result in bad breath. This includes antihistamines, decongestants, muscle relaxants, pain relievers, and drugs that treat depression, anxiety, and hypertension. 

3. Chronic Reflux

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a digestive condition that develops when the muscle at the end of the esophagus fails to close properly. As a result, the contents of the stomach—including bile and acid—leak up into the food pipe and can cause a distinctive odor in the mouth. 

If you have persistent bad breath, turn to the family dentistry team at Lowitz & Meier in Cincinnati. This office provides quality dental care for patients of all ages, and because they’re a private practice, they can prioritize the needs of their patients without worrying about meeting any corporate quotas regarding specific treatments. Their comprehensive services include cosmetic dentistry, restorative procedures, oral surgery, and orthodontics. Visit their website to view their hours and call (513) 521-8900 to make an appointment today.