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If you’ve been struggling with bad breath or someone has pointed it out to you, you might be dealing with halitosis. Bad breath can come and go depending on factors like what you’ve eaten or whether you experience “morning breath,” which is common in people who breathe through their mouth. However, the most frequent cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene.
The primary reason for halitosis is the unchecked buildup of bacteria in your mouth, particularly on your tongue. These bacteria release acids that contribute to plaque buildup. The sulfur compounds produced as waste by oral bacteria are called volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), which are largely responsible for unpleasant odors. Other potential causes include “fruity” breath in those with uncontrolled diabetes, respiratory infections, chronic sinusitis, tooth decay, and gum disease.
Proper Diagnosis and Treatment
At Lockwood Family Dental, we take bad breath seriously. When you visit our office, our dentist will thoroughly evaluate your oral health by inspecting your teeth, gums, tongue, and salivary glands. We’ll also review your medical history, as certain medications that cause dry mouth (xerostomia) can contribute to halitosis. Dry mouth reduces saliva flow, which is essential for maintaining a healthy mouth and preventing bad breath.
Other causes of chronic halitosis might include certain dietary choices, such as eating garlic and onions, drinking coffee or alcohol, or following low-carb or ketogenic diets. Unhealthy habits like smoking or chewing tobacco also significantly contribute to bad breath.
7 Tips to Improve Your Breath and Boost Your Confidence
- Maintain Daily Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss at least twice a day, and don’t forget your tongue! Use a toothbrush or tongue scraper to clean the surface of your tongue. Our team at Lockwood Family Dental can recommend the best antibacterial toothpaste and mouthwash for your needs.
- Prevent Dry Mouth: Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Chewing sugarless gum can also stimulate saliva production, keeping your mouth moist and fresh.
- Rinse After Eating: Swish water in your mouth after meals to remove food particles that can linger and cause bad breath.
- Choose Healthy Snacks: Opt for snacks like apples, celery, and carrots, which not only promote saliva flow but also help scrub your teeth naturally.
- Quit Smoking: Eliminating tobacco use can significantly improve your breath and overall oral health.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Schedule routine visits to Lockwood Family Dental for professional cleanings. Removing plaque buildup can help address halitosis and prevent more serious oral health issues.
- Address Underlying Health Conditions: Beyond oral hygiene, bad breath can be linked to conditions like gum disease, tooth decay, or poorly fitting dentures. Additionally, medical issues like sinus infections, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and acid reflux can contribute to chronic halitosis. Consult our dentist or primary care physician to address these concerns.
NOW Is the Time!
Prioritizing your oral health not only improves your breath but can also enhance your overall well-being and self-confidence. Whether interacting with colleagues, friends, or family, fresh breath can boost your confidence in any social setting.
If you’re experiencing bad breath and want a solution, Lockwood Family Dental is here to help. Regular dental visits allow us to detect and address problems like hardened plaque and gum disease that may be causing halitosis. Let us help you achieve fresher breath and a healthier smile!
Schedule your visit today and take the first step toward better oral health and renewed confidence!
