Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common problem that affects many people at some point in their lives. It can be caused for a number of reasons, including poor oral hygiene, certain foods and drinks, and underlying medical conditions. While bad breath can be embarrassing, the good news is that it is usually treatable with simple lifestyle changes and preventive care.
Are oral odors keeping you from fully enjoying your life? Get judgment-free care with the dentists at Metropolitan Dental Care in Denver, CO! New and current patients can reach our team at (303) 534-2626 to get started now.
Sudden bad breath isn’t just embarrassing–it’s concerning. In today’s blog post, we reveal common causes of halitosis so that you can treat the root cause of the issue to improve your oral health.
Common Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath can occur for one, some, or many reasons. Common causes typically include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Gum disease
- Certain foods and drinks
- Medical conditions
- Xerostomia (dry mouth)
Poor Oral Hygiene
There are billions of tiny microorganisms that live inside our mouths, including oral bacteria. Oral bacteria release a sulfurous compound in the mouth, which accounts for most instances of bad breath. That’s why removing odor-causing bacteria is essential for fresher breath.
Regular brushing and flossing can prevent the build-up of sulfur-producing bacteria in the mouth, which is why dentists recommend:
- Twice-daily brushing with a remineralizing toothpaste and soft-bristled toothbrush
- Once-daily flossing with string floss, an interdental brush, or a water flosser
- Occasionally rinsing with a germ-killing mouthwash
Gum Disease
Oral bacteria are largely responsible for gum disease, too. Untreated gum disease can irreversibly destroy gingival tissue, eventually leading to necrosis. Once this happens, patients may struggle to resolve bad breath on their own. A trip to a Denver dentist is a must.
Certain Foods and Drinks
Some foods and drinks can produce unpleasant odors, such as:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Coffee
- Alcohol
Medical Conditions
In some cases, underlying medical conditions may be causing bad breath, such as:
- Sinus infections
- Acid reflux
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
If your bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, it may be a good idea to visit your healthcare provider. They can help pinpoint any underlying medical conditions that may be responsible.
Xerostomia
Saliva is important for fresh breath, as it helps wash away odor-producing bacteria from the oral cavity. Xerostomia (also known as dry mouth) is a condition that results in a lack of saliva, which encourages odor-causing bacterial growth in the mouth.
Treatment Options for Bad Breath
When it comes to treating bad breath, there are many things patients can do, such as:
- Brushing at least twice a day
- Flossing at least once a day
- Visiting a dentist in Denver, CO, every six months to prevent gum disease
- Avoiding strongly-scented foods and drinks before social engagements
- Treating underlying medical conditions
- Drinking plenty of water and chewing on sugar-free gum to keep the mouth moist
Have bad breath? We can help!
Don’t let halitosis keep you from sharing your smile. Contact Metropolitan Dental Care today to see how we can help fight bad breath. Reach us online or give us a ring at (303) 534-2626 to schedule your appointment now!
