How To Get Rid Of Bad Breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common condition that can be caused by a variety of oral health, lifestyle, and medical factors. Learn more about what may contribute to bad breath, ways to help prevent it through good oral hygiene habits, and when persistent symptoms may be a sign that it’s time to speak with your dentist.

Understanding the Causes of Bad Breath

Bad breath can leave you and others with a bad taste, literally. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, commonly affects many individuals from time to time. Luckily, bad breath can be prevented, but knowing what is causing it is key. If you are experiencing chronic bad breath, this may be a sign from your body that something more serious is going on.

One of the culprits of bad breath is tooth decay. Tooth decay is a result of bacteria that produce smelly acids that break down your teeth. If you are hoping to freshen your breath, one of the best ways to rid yourself of the annoying smell is to remove bacteria by performing good oral hygiene practices daily. Brushing, flossing, and rinsing the mouth with an antibacterial mouth rinse can help improve your breath. It is helpful to brush your teeth after each meal; however, at a minimum, twice a day for at least two minutes each time. This will help remove any leftover food particles that can contribute to tooth decay and bad breath. It is important to note that you should avoid toothbrushing with a hard toothbrush, as this can cause gum recession and be harmful to your teeth.

Tips for Managing & Preventing Halitosis

• It can be easy to forget about cleaning your tongue, but it is an important part of keeping your mouth healthy. Your tongue can be a breeding ground for odor-causing bacteria. Your tongue can be brushed using your toothbrush or a tongue scraper.
• Gum disease is often associated with bad breath. Sometimes this is referred to as ‘perio breath.’ Some signs of gum disease include inflamed and bleeding gums, which can leave deep pockets within your gum tissue where odor-causing bacteria reside. Be sure you are visiting your dentist regularly for check-ups and cleanings. Your dentist may even refer you to a periodontist who specializes in treating the gums.
• Oral and nasal infections can result in bad breath. When you are troubled by a cold or sinus infection, bacteria within your mouth feed on the mucus your body produces and can produce an unpleasant odor.
• Saliva plays an important role in maintaining your oral health. It helps to wash away food debris and neutralize acids that are harmful to your teeth. This, in turn, helps lower the risk of developing cavities and infections. Without an adequate amount of saliva, bad breath can occur. Dry mouth can be a side effect of medications, alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco use, for instance. If you are experiencing chronic dry mouth, be sure to inform your dentist or physician of proper treatment and management. They may recommend an artificial saliva substitute or other products that stimulate saliva flow. In addition, make sure you are staying hydrated with water every day.
• Tobacco causes several health-related issues, and bad breath is one of them. Tobacco produces its own odor on your breath and also causes a dry mouth. Plus, individuals using tobacco have an increased risk of developing gum disease, which is another source of bad breath, as mentioned.
• Although tasty, smelly foods like garlic and onions can create a not-so-friendly aroma. If you have big plans and are trying to keep your breath fresh, try avoiding consuming certain foods that trigger bad breath.
• Dental appliances such as dentures, orthodontic retainers, or bridges can harbor bacteria that produce foul odors. It is important to clean your dental appliance based on the specific recommendations of your dentist.
• In some individuals, bad breath could be a sign of a chronic illness, including diabetes, liver or kidney disease, or gastrointestinal issues.

If you’re on the go, sugar-free chewing gum and mints can be a quick fix. Not only will these items help freshen your breath, but they also increase your salivary flow to help rid smelly bacteria and food particles from your mouth.

If you are experiencing chronic bad breath, speak with your dentist for evaluation. With a thorough exam and review of your medical and dental history, your dentist can help identify potential causes and advise you on treatment.

References:

WebMD - Dental Health and Bad Breath

Mayo Clinic - Bad Breath