Most people will experience bad breath occasionally, such as in the morning or after eating raw onions, but when it persists or you don’t know its cause, it can be distressing. While some breath issues are simply caused by dry mouth, others could be a sign of underlying conditions that require the attention of a dentist. To help you understand what could be behind your problem, here are some of the most common causes of bad breath and how to solve them.

How Can You Prevent Bad Breath?

1. Know the Cause

Before you search for a remedy for bad breath, determine what’s causing it to ensure you know the right fix. Bad breath can be caused by foods like onions and garlic, or because food is stuck in your teeth. If it persists after brushing and rinsing with mouthwash and frequently reoccurs, it could even be a sign of certain conditions such as periodontitis or sinusitis. 

2. Practice Proper Oral Hygiene

To avoid bad breath, brush your teeth twice a day or after every meal. Flossing also removes food particles stuck between your teeth, a common source of the issue. Using a mouthwash rinse provides an even deeper clean, reaching the cheeks and other parts of the mouth to freshen breath. 

3. Check Your Medications

Since saliva helps clean bacteria and other particles out of your mouth, any medication that leads to dry mouth can cause bad breath. If you regularly take antidepressants, decongestants, antihistamines, or muscle relaxants, you might need to talk to your dentist about ways to counter your dry mouth, including increasing your intake of water.

4. Quit Smoking

If you smoke, quitting could be the first step to fresher breath. Not only does the smell of cigarettes linger in your breath and cause dry mouth, but smoking can cause decay, oral cancer, and other conditions that lead to bad breath.

5. See Your Dentist

As with any oral health concern, bad breath is best addressed by your dentist. They will work with you to identify the cause of your issue and help you manage the symptoms. For example, if snoring is causing your dry mouth and leading to bad breath, they could provide you with a mouthguard to keep you from snoring. Routine dental cleanings also remove plaque buildup, or hardened food particles on your teeth, which can also freshen your breath. 

Ready to put a stop to bad breath? Stanley R McCardle DMD | Family Dentistry can help you find a solution. Located in Headland, AL, this dentist and his team specialize in general and cosmetic dentistry for patients of all ages. Whether you are due for a routine cleaning, root canal, or teeth whitening, this team will cater a dental care plan just for you. Visit them online to view a full list of their services, or call (334) 693-2112 to make an appointment.