Although many people occasionally have bad breath, others find it’s a recurring problem that causes stress and affects their confidence. If you’re worried about bad breath, also known as halitosis, a dentist will provide solutions. Below is a guide to its causes and treatments.

Why Do I Have Bad Breath?

Poor Dental Hygiene

If you don’t brush your teeth thoroughly, small pieces of food stay in your mouth and create plaque. This sticky film of bacteria on teeth gives off an unpleasant smell. Bacteria and food debris on the tongue can also cause halitosis.

Dry Mouth

Saliva washes away food and helps prevent infections. If you don’t produce enough saliva, food particles and bacteria may linger in your mouth and create a bad smell. A lot of people find they have dry mouth in the morning because they produce less saliva during sleep. Diabetes also reduces saliva production, and many medications cite dry mouth as a side effect.

Food & Drink

Some foods are known to cause bad breath, including onions and garlic. Your lungs may emit a bad odor after these foods enter the bloodstream. The caffeine in coffee and alcohol are also known to dry out the mouth in addition to encouraging bacteria to grow.

Health Conditions

Some health conditions cause halitosis. Acid reflux and GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease) force food up through the esophagus and produce an offensive smell. Oral infections, wounds in the mouth, and tooth decay also lead to bad breath. See your dentist to treat these conditions.

How to Prevent Bad Breath

To prevent halitosis, floss regularly, use a tongue scraper, and brush your teeth for at least two minutes twice daily. You should also make regular visits to your dentist to prevent cavities and gum disease.

Prevent dry mouth by drinking plenty of water throughout the day and using over-the-counter sprays specially formulated to treat dry mouth.

If you think your medications cause bad breath, see your doctor about alternatives.

For help in preventing bad breath, contact Geauga Family Dental Care in Chagrin Falls, OH. Dr. Jonathan Rosenthal and his compassionate team have more than 30 years of experience. They pride themselves on providing a friendly treatment atmosphere and a customer-first approach. To arrange a free consultation, call (440) 338-8084, or visit their website to learn more about their comprehensive services.