Halitosis is one of the most common oral health issues that are painful and unpleasant. It is a concern to many people and they always look for how to get rid of bad breath permanently. Hal breath is a normal occurrence at times, but halitosis, or chronic bad breath, maybe a sign of an underlying disease or condition that needs medical evaluation. In this article, we will be discussing the most common reasons for bad breath and how to prevent it.
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most well-known causes of halitosis is poor oral health. If you do not clean your teeth regularly, then food can remain in your mouth and can become a food source for bacteria. These bacteria produce foul-smelling gases, which cause bad breath.
Even when you brush every day, not cleaning your tongue can still leave behind odor-causing bacteria. A good oral hygiene routine, such as brushing your teeth, flossing, and tongue cleaning, is needed for fresh breath. If you are wondering, “Why does my breath smell even after brushing?”, it may be because bacteria are hiding in hard-to-reach areas.
2. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Saliva helps to keep your mouth clean by removing food particles and bacteria. When your mouth is dry, bacteria grow extremely fast, resulting in bad breath. Dry mouth may be due to dehydration, breathing through your mouth, medications, or illnesses.
To avoid dry mouth, have a lot of water during the day and chew sugar-free gum to help your body produce more saliva. If you often have a dry mouth, visit a dentist in Boca Raton for remedies.
3. Gum Disease
Bad breath may also be an indication of gum disease. When bacteria and plaque accumulate along the gumline, they lead to infection, bleeding, and inflammation. As gum disease advances, pockets of bacteria develop between the gums and teeth, producing a lingering bad smell.
If not treated, gum disease can cause severe oral health issues, such as tooth loss. Early gum disease treatment can eliminate the cause of bad breath and enhance your overall oral health.
4. Food Choices and Diet
Some foods cause bad breath naturally. Garlic, onions, hot foods, and coffee have pungent compounds that remain in your mouth hours after consumption. Crash diets or fasting can also cause bad breath because of the release of ketones, which have a characteristic odor.
Brushing, flossing, and mouthwash after eating smell-producing foods can be of assistance, but in other instances, the odor will only subside once the food has entirely passed through your system.
5. Digestive Issues and Halitosis
There is a strong connection between digestive issues and halitosis. Conditions such as acid reflux (GERD), indigestion, or an imbalanced gut microbiome can cause stomach acids and gases to travel back up the esophagus, leading to bad breath.
If you frequently experience acid reflux or digestive discomfort along with bad breath, addressing the root cause with dietary changes and medical treatment may help. Visiting a Dental Office in Boca Raton can provide further insights into managing digestive-related bad breath.
6. Smoking and Tobacco Use
Smoking and tobacco use not only yellow your teeth but also lead to chronic bad breath. The tobacco chemicals dry out the mouth, lower saliva levels, and leave lingering odors. In addition, smokers are more likely to develop gum disease, which can exacerbate halitosis.
Stopping smoking is one of the finest things you can do for your teeth. Your breath will get better over time, and your chances of getting gum disease will go down. Regular checkups and teeth cleanings near you can prevent dental problems that cause bad breath.
Expert Assistance for Long-Lasting Fresh Breath
If you find that you’re suffering from bad breath even when you take good care of your oral hygiene, perhaps it’s time to visit a professional. Here at Harris Dentistry, we provide complete halitosis treatment in Boca Raton so you can enjoy a healthier, fresher smile. From treatment for gum disease to dental checkups or deep cleaning, our experienced team is ready to assist.
If you’re looking for a trusted dentist in Boca Raton, contact Harris Dentistry today to schedule an appointment and take the first step toward better oral health!
