Bad breath is a common problem in daily life. Bad breath can make it difficult for people to meet, chat, or apply for jobs. You can mask bad breath with gum or mints, but it won’t work if your lunchtime pasta was the cause.
There are many reasons for bad breath. These facts will help to differentiate between them.
It’s easy to fix the problem
Both the bacteria in your mouth as well as what you eat can affect your breath. Minor cases can be treated with top-of the-line, simple treatments.
- Keep your mouth clean. Make sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day. Floss often. Your tongue should be cleaned twice daily. Bad breath can be caused by bad bacteria on the tongue.
- Healthy Saliva Flow. Your saliva cleans your mouth 24 hours per day and kills any bacteria-causing organisms. Healthy foods like carrots, apples, and sugar-free gum can promote healthy saliva flow.
More Serious Causes
If you have bad breath, or you don’t practice good hygiene, your dentist can help. These conditions may require professional treatment.
- Gum Disease. Constant bad taste or bad breath could indicate advanced gum disease. Gum disease does not always cause pain. It is important to have it treated immediately. Consult your dentist if you notice bad breath or persistent pain.
- Dry Mouth. Dry mouth can be caused by insufficient saliva flow. Dry mouth is not usually a sign of serious conditions. Dry mouth may indicate side effects of antihistamines and decongestants. As we have already mentioned, healthy saliva flow is crucial for maintaining a healthy smile. Dryness is a common sign. Your dentist can help if you have more serious conditions.
- Conditions. Bad smelling breath could be a sign that you have certain conditions. Bad breath can be caused by diabetes, sinus infections, or bronchitis. If you’ve received a clean bill, your doctor may refer you to the dentist.
Bad breath can lead to cramps in your social lives. Bad breath could also be an indication of something else.