It’s one thing to eat pizza or pasta that contains garlic or onions and have bad breath. You can typically brush your teeth and rinse with mouthwash to get rid of the odor. However, when you discover that nothing is curbing the foul aroma coming from your mouth, you may be dealing with something more serious – halitosis. Learn what can cause it and what you can do to get rid of it.
What is Halitosis?
Halitosis is another name for bad breath, and it’s commonly caused by poor oral health and hygiene. This type of condition does not go away with simple brushing, flossing, or rinsing though. Instead, it usually requires professional help to address a more problematic issue occurring inside your mouth.
Why Does Bad Breath Occur?
It might seem as if eating certain foods (i.e., garlic, onions, etc.) is the only reason you might develop bad breath. However, when you choose to forgo good oral hygiene habits, you can find yourself standing further away when talking to others.
A lack of brushing, flossing, and mouthwash can cause bacteria to form and spread throughout your mouth. As a result, it can grow and begin to attack your teeth and gums, increasing your risk of cavities and gum disease.
Other possible reasons for halitosis (bad breath) include:
- Dry mouth
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Tonsil stones
- Cancer, specifically of the head and neck
- Diabetes
- Liver or kidney disease
- Pneumonia or other similar infections
What You Can Do to Prevent Bad Breath
Since no one wants to be embarrassed by the odor coming out of their mouth, dentists offer helpful tips to minimize the risk of bad breath. These include:
- Using a special mouth rinse prescribed by your dentist that targets bad breath
- Brushing or using a scraper to thoroughly clean your tongue, as it can harbor countless bacteria that lead to dry mouth and bad breath
- Brushing your teeth twice each day for two minutes and flossing at least once before going to bed to remove any bacteria that might otherwise cause halitosis
- Seeing your dentist every six months for regular dental checkups and cleanings
- Avoiding the use of tobacco products and giving up your smoking habit
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep your salivary glands working to prevent dry mouth
- Chew sugarless gum to encourage saliva production and rid your teeth of any bacteria that might try to break down tooth enamel
- Eat raw vegetables or fruits (i.e., apples, celery, carrots, etc.), as they act like natural toothbrushes and clear away harmful particles on teeth
- Use natural remedies such as green tea, orange, zinc, yogurt, parsley, or pineapple juice to combat unpleasant odors
There is no reason to go through life with bad breath. With so many homemade and professional remedies available, you can take better care of your smile and oral health while remaining confident when talking to those around you.
About the Practice
Our talented team of dentists at Elmbrook Family Dental wants to give patients all the necessary tools and information to maintain a healthy smile. Whether it’s providing preventive care in-house, discussing how to brush and floss properly at home, or identifying ways to eradicate bad breath for good, we’re here to make sure each person feels confident in their smile and oral health. If you’re struggling with halitosis and need a professional’s help, visit our website or call (414) 775-2535.