What Is Causing My Bad Breath?
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be embarrassing and undermine your confidence. A myriad of problems can cause bad breath. Unfortunately, you may not even be aware of the problem, and it can feel devastating when someone else points it out.
If you have, or think you have, bad breath, there are several steps you can take to freshen your breath and support your oral health. Here are some common factors that contribute to halitosis:
Check Your Dental Hygiene
One of the leading causes of bad breath is poor dental hygiene. Cavities can form if teeth aren’t cleaned regularly, and they can contribute to the odor.
Maintaining adequate moisture in the mouth is essential for neutralizing acids and washing away the bad stuff, so you should try to stay hydrated. Otherwise, dry mouth will occur. Combine dry mouth with inadequate brushing, and the consequence is plaque buildup, not just smelly breath.
It Could Be What You Consume
Eating certain foods, such as garlic, onions, and spices, can cause bad breath. What you might not realize is that the odors from food don’t just linger in the mouth. They enter the bloodstream during digestion and then reach the lungs.
You likely know that using tobacco products leaves an odor in the mouth. Gum disease is more prevalent among smokers and is another frequent cause of bad breath.
If you enjoy alcohol and caffeine, keep in mind that these substances can also contribute to bad breath by reducing saliva production. Saliva is essential for washing away excess food particles and killing harmful bacteria.
Are You Clearing Your Throat a Lot?
If you consistently feel the urge to clear your throat, you may have postnasal drip, and the excess mucus could be causing bad breath. You might want to consult your doctor to determine whether your postnasal drip has led to sinusitis, or inflammation of the sinuses. This condition occurs when bacteria or viruses build up, which can also contribute to foul-smelling breath.
It May Not Be Your Mouth
While the mouth is a common source of bad breath, that’s not always the case. There are many other underlying problems that originate elsewhere in the body. For instance, infections such as pneumonia or bronchitis can contribute to bad breath, as can a chronic sinus infection. Other less common causes include
- Acid reflux
- Diabetes, acid reflux
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Kidney or liver problems
- Medications like antidepressants or decongestants
- Nose obstruction, like a foreign object up the nose
- Persistent mouth breathing, especially at night
Combatting Bad Breath at Home
Bad breath is typically a lifestyle problem, which means there are several methods for dealing with it at home. The best remedy—and most effective line of defense before breath becomes foul—is to brush and floss regularly. The American Dental Association recommends using a fluoride toothpaste and brushing gently with a soft-bristled brush for at least two minutes. You can also try these methods for fresh breath:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated
- Clean your tongue using a tongue scraper or the back of your toothbrush if it has ridges for tongue cleaning
- Swish with an antibacterial, non-alcoholic mouthwash after meals
- Chew sugar-free gum containing xylitol to increase saliva production
When It’s Time to See Your Dentist in Blue Ash and Cincinnati
Regular dental checkups and cleanings from your Cincinnati dentist are essential for keeping the mouth free of odor-causing problems. Brushing and flossing twice daily will also help keep the mouth healthy and free of bad breath. A mouthwash may, at least temporarily, help alleviate the problem.
If all efforts to eliminate your bad breath fail, you should consult us, your neighborhood family dentist, for a full examination. You may also need X-rays to identify the underlying problem. If we can’t find a dental cause for your halitosis, we’ll likely recommend that you see your primary physician.
If you would like a Cincinnati dentist to help address your bad breath, explore restorative options such as repairing a cracked filling, or schedule your next routine exam, contact Beckham Square Family Dental. Call us today at 513.489.7800 or use our online contact form.