While bad breath is certainly socially unacceptable and embarrassing, things might be more serious than you think. Bad breath might be a result of that garlic you ate but when things persist, it might be a sign of a serious medical problem. To find out more about halitosis, read on.
Bad Breath and Common Causes
When a quick cleaning with the toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash doesn't do the trick to eliminate bad breath, you might want to look at some lifestyle issues. For example, those who smoke nicotine may notice more issues with bad breath. In addition, make sure you are using the right tools to clean your teeth and visiting your dentist regularly for professional cleaning.
Bad breath may be just a sign that food particles are lingering too long and producing bacteria. Naturally, bacteria that is allowed to accumulate can lead to problems with gum diseases, abscesses, and decay. In fact, a cavity can produce a foul taste and smell and be the first sign of decay. Finally, some medications can cause bad breath. In particular, some medications cause dryness in the mouth and that can lead to bad breath. If that seems to be the case with you, consider a moisturizing mouth spray or wash to help alleviate the problem.
Signs of Serious Conditions
More serious medical conditions can affect the delicate balance in your mouth. Some common issues are sinus infections and acid reflux. See your doctor, eliminate those issues, and see if your bad breath doesn't go away at the same time. In addition, diseases like diabetes can also create bad breath.
Tips for Dealing With Bad Breath
- Keep a toothbrush, floss, and toothpaste with you in your car or bag and use it after eating.
- If you cannot brush, keep some sugar-free chewing gum handy.
- Drink plenty of plain water. Not only is water good for you on many levels, but it will keep you hydrated so that your mouth is not dry and will help rinse away germs.
- Consider brushing not only your teeth but your tongue as well.
- Replace your toothbrush often, they don't have to cost a lot to do a good job but they can harbor bacteria when they get old.
- Don't neglect your routine dental exams. The hygienist can catch small cavities and the beginnings of gum disease before they get worse.
If you are suffering from bad breath, there are remedies, Talk to a general dentist to find out more.
Our oral surgery and general dental website offers important information on how to prevent dry socket following a tooth extraction. After getting your tooth pulled, a protective blood clot develops over the extraction site. Many of our blog posts explain how this protective clot helps promote healing after an extraction.
You'll learn that if the clot is accidentally dislodged, dry socket may occur, which can raise your risk for infection and heavy bleeding. We'll provide you with important tips on how to prevent this by avoiding smoking and drinking through a straw. You'll also learn that swishing water around your mouth should be avoided for a couple of days following your extraction because doing so creates a suction that may dislodge your clot, leading to dry socket.