Bad breath is a common problem for many people. When it gets worse or doesn't go away, it becomes known as chronic halitosis.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Smelly breath is caused by rotting pieces of food. It turns into bacteria that can pass into your bloodstream and to the lungs, where the odor is emitted from breathing.
While people spend lots of money on products that treat the symptoms of bad breath, they often neglect to take steps to address the main causes. These are bacteria and decaying food pieces stuck in spaces between the teeth, gums, and tongue. In many cases, good daily oral hygiene helps. This includes brushing, flossing, and rinsing. Those 3 can keep your breath in check. This also applies to denture-wearers.
Other Conditions
Other conditions, such as gum disease, can cause persistent bad breath. Under normal conditions, your saliva acts to clean your mouth of the pieces that can decay. Some people have a condition known as dry mouth. This is when your mouth makes very little saliva. Therefore this can sometimes cause smelly breath.
Of course, if you eat certain kinds of food like garlic and onions, you can have bad-smelling breath. Also, if you take certain kinds of medications, or smoke cigarettes or cigars, you may also experience these symptoms.
In some cases, persistent bad breath may be a sign that you have a more serious health problem. This may include gastrointestinal, respiratory, or sinus problems.
How To Fix Bad Breath
Over-the-counter mouthwashes and rinses will temporarily freshen your breath but only mask the root cause. The American Dental Association acknowledges the effectiveness of some anti-microbial mouth rinses. Therefore, these products are shown to reduce plaque and gingivitis. Good oral health habits can contribute to reducing and eliminating halitosis. Brushing and flossing daily as well as regular professional cleanings are performed by our office.