If you schedule regular teeth cleanings and brush diligently, it’s reasonable to assume that your breath will always be minty fresh. However, for 25% of people, this isn’t the case. Halitosis, or chronic bad breath, has several causes, but there are also many treatments. If your breath is less than ideal, use this guide to learn about this condition.

Common Causes

Consuming aromatic foods like garlic, onions, or coffee can cause bad breath temporarily. If your breath is consistently unpleasant, though, your diet isn’t to blame. The most common causes of halitosis include dry mouth, tonsil stones, nose or throat conditions, and poor dental hygiene. 

Because saliva rinses away food particles and bacteria, bad breath is a likely side effect of dry mouth. Tonsil stones, which are hardened deposits of food and debris, can also cause foul odors if they get lodged in the back of the throat.

Infections in the nose or throat can produce phlegm that contributes to halitosis. Also, failing to brush, floss, or schedule regular teeth cleanings can lead to chronic bad breath over time.

Treatment Options 

If you struggle with bad breath, ask your dentist about it at your next appointment. After determining the underlying cause of the problem, your dentist will devise an effective treatment plan.

You may have to take steps to combat dry mouth, for example, which often includes drinking more water, chewing sugar-free gum, limiting caffeine and alcohol, and modifying any medications that could be contributing to the problem. If a nose or throat infection is to blame, it may be necessary to take a round of antibiotics.

Your provider can discuss simple strategies for improving dental hygiene if that is the issue. In addition to upgrading to an electric toothbrush, it may be wise to scrape your tongue and gargle with an alcohol-free mouthwash twice daily. 

To determine the underlying cause of your halitosis, turn to Apex Dental Care in Issaquah, WA. Since 2002, this practice has provided comprehensive oral health care for families across King County. At their state-of-the-art office, their highly trained team is equipped to perform everything from teeth cleanings to dental implants. To schedule your first appointment, get in touch through their website or call (425) 837-0383.