Bad breath, also known by the more clinical term of halitosis, is a persistent foul odor produced with the exhalation of breath. While bad breath can be an uncomfortable and embarrassing condition, in most cases, it is not serious and can be effectively treated by a dentist or with the use of products like antibacterial mouthwash. To find the best course of treatment, it's crucial to first understand what may be causing your bad breath; a few of the more common causes are discussed below.

What Causes Bad Breath?

1. Certain Foods

The primary cause of bad breath is particularly potent-smelling foods. Garlic and onions are at the top of the list; these foods contain sulfuric compounds that are absorbed by the tongue, and they even enter directly into the bloodstream—making their foul odor literally come out of the pores of the skin. Fish, which naturally has a pungent aroma, and dairy products, which produce an abundance of bacteria in the mouth, are also common food sources of bad breath. You don't need to cut these foods out of your diet completely, but limit them to keep bad breath under control.

2. Oral Health Issues

Regular brushing and flossing remove plaque buildup from the teeth and gums. The longer this buildup stays on the teeth, the greater amount of foul-smelling bacteria it generates. Dentists recommend brushing and flossing at least twice a day. Also, dental issues like cavities, abscesses, and gum disease can also lead to a proliferation of malodorous mouth bacteria, so make routine dentist visits a priority, and have any concerns checked out right away.

3. Dry Mouth

Saliva production is crucial to keeping food particles rinsed from the teeth and gums. If you have dry mouth, saliva production is hindered, resulting in less natural rinsing action for the interior of the mouth and an accumulation of plaque, bacteria, and bad breath. Dry mouth can be caused by medical conditions like diabetes or thrush, or it can be a side effect of some medications, such as antidepressants, diuretics, and antihistamines. Using an alcohol-free mouthwash, sipping water regularly throughout the day, and chewing sugarless gum to stimulate saliva are all helpful ways to combat dry mouth and the bad breath that comes with it.

If bad breath is an ongoing issue, visit your dentist. David A. Dauphin DMD provides general and cosmetic dentistry services to the Boone County, AL, and Wiregrass areas. Utilizing a modern, gentle approach to dental care, Dr. Dauphin and his team offer everything from exams and X-rays to crowns and veneers. Schedule an appointment by calling (334) 794-3727 or visiting them online.