Bad breath, or halitosis, is an embarrassing problem that affects many people. It can cause anxiety and make you self-conscious in social situations. While mints, gum, and mouthwash are popular temporary fixes, they don’t address the underlying causes of bad breath.
Here are some of the most common causes of bad breath:
1. Lax oral hygiene
The number one cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, bits of food get trapped between your teeth. Bacteria feed on these food particles, releasing foul-smelling sulphur compounds.
To keep your breath fresh, brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. Don’t forget to gently brush your tongue, too, as it can harbor odour-causing bacteria. If you have trouble remembering to brush and floss, set reminders on your phone.
2. Gum disease
Gum disease, or periodontal disease, is an infection of the gums. It starts when plaque builds up along the gum line, causing the gums to become inflamed. As gum disease progresses, pockets form between the teeth and gums where bacteria thrive. This can lead to persistent bad breath.
Regular dental check-ups are important for catching and treating gum disease early. If it’s been a while since your last cleaning, schedule an appointment with your dentist for professional dental cleaning. They’ll make sure your gums are healthy.
3. Aggressive dieting
Did you know that strict low-carb diets can cause bad breath? When your body doesn’t get enough carbohydrates, it starts burning fat for energy instead. This process releases chemicals called ketones, which have a strong, unpleasant odour that causes bad breath.
Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is better for your breath and your overall health. Make sure to include a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and lean proteins. Drinking plenty of water also helps rinse away food debris and keeps your mouth moist.
4. Allergies and sleep apnoea
Sleep apnoea is a health condition that causes the airways to collapse and, thus, restricts your breathing. The condition can force you to breathe through your mouth. This dries out your mouth, which allows odour-causing bacteria to flourish. Sleep apnoea, a condition where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep, also leads to dry mouth and morning breath.
If you suffer from allergies, sleep apnoea, or other conditions that affect your breathing, talk to your doctor. Treating these underlying issues can help improve your breath. Using a humidifier while you sleep may provide some relief as well.
5. Medications
Certain medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, have dry mouth as one of their side effects. These include antihistamines, decongestants, painkillers, diuretics, and antidepressants. Some drugs can also produce an odour as they break down and release chemicals in your body.
If you suspect a medication is causing your bad breath, don’t stop taking it without consulting your doctor first. Drinking more water, chewing sugar-free gum, and using an alcohol-free mouthwash can counteract dry mouth.
In most cases, good oral hygiene is enough to keep bad breath at bay. Brush and floss daily, and don’t skip your regular dental cleanings. Avoid tobacco, drink plenty of water, and eat a healthy diet low in sugary and high-protein foods.
If you still struggle with halitosis despite good oral care habits, schedule an appointment at Carrum Downs Dental Group. Our knowledgeable team will work with you to identify the cause of your bad breath and recommend an effective treatment plan. You don’t have to live with bad breath – we can help!
