Three Causes of Bad Breath That Aren’t Food or Drink
Take control of your halitosis!
If you happen to suffer from bad breath (technically known as “halitosis”), then this is the article for you!
Bad breath can occur as a result of an underlying oral health problem, a bad habit, or may simply be a result of consuming certain foods or drinks, such as onions, garlic, tuna fish or coffee.
Today, our Milton dentist wants to talk about the non-food or drink related bad breath issues that you just may be suffering from:
1. Poor oral hygiene
An improper oral hygiene routine, such as neglecting brushing twice a day and flossing once, or not seeing the dentist and hygienist regularly puts a smile at risk for problems. Insufficient cleaning can rapidly lead to problems like gum disease and a build-up of plaque and tartar… which smell… really bad. Thankfully, a change in oral care habits will likely solve a halitosis issue… that is, if that’s the only culprit.
2. Dry mouth (Xerostomia)
The mouth should be moist, not dry, at all times in order to support healthy teeth and gums. Dry mouth is a condition that occurs when a person isn’t producing a healthy amount of saliva, and is commonly brought on by factors such as anxiety, using tobacco products or taking certain medications. A dry mouth environment promotes bacterial growth, gum disease, tooth decay and, of course, smelly breath. Luckily there are ways to keep the mouth moist, such as chewing sugar-free gum and sipping water regularly.
3. Using tobacco products (smoking or chewing)
Smoking or chewing tobacco, like mentioned above, can lead to a dry mouth environment which contributes to halitosis – but it’s also the chemical additives in these product that linger in the mouth and leave a repulsive smell. Using tobacco products is just one thing that should be avoided altogether for a healthy, halitosis-free smile.
