Bad breath can be embarrassing and it causes anxiety in people. Bad breath comes from odor-producing bacteria living in the mouth. Bacteria starts growing in your mouth and between the teeth if brushing and flossing are not done regularly. A sulfur compound is released by these bacteria that make your breath smell.
What Are Its Causes?
There are many possible causes for your bad breath and most of it starts from the mouth.
Food
All the food particles begin to break down in the mouth. It can multiply bacteria and cause a foul odor. Onion, garlic, cheese, soda, and certain spices contain a strong odor and can cause bad breath. Since the foods are absorbed in the bloodstream, it affects the air you exhale.
Tobacco Products
The mouth becomes unpleasant for those people who smoke and use tobacco products. smokers are also more prone to get gum disease. It is another cause of bad breath.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Food particles remain in the mouth and cause bad breath if brushing and flossing are not done regularly. The plaque builds up between the teeth and can irritate your gums. The bacteria also get trapped on the tongue and can produce odors. Dentures also cause odor-producing bacteria if they don’t fit well and are not cleaned regularly.
Dry Mouth
Saliva removes food particles and cleanses your mouth. When the production of saliva is decreased, it can contribute to bad breath. This condition is called xerostomia, more commonly called dry mouth. It occurs naturally during sleep and if you sleep with your mouth open.
Mouth, nose, and throat conditions
Bacteria-covered stones form on the tonsils and produce odor. Bad breath is also caused by infections or chronic inflammations in the nose, throat, or sinuses.
Diseases
Some cancers, liver failure, and other metabolic disorders cause bad breath as a result of the chemicals they produce. Chronic reflux of stomach acids can be attributed to bad breath. Bad breath in children is caused by having a foreign body lodged in their nasal cavity.
How to Prevent It
- Brush your teeth regularly.
- Regularly floss at least once each day.
- Properly clean your tongue.
- Properly maintain your diet by excluding sugary foods and those that lead to bad breath.
- Schedule regular dental checkups.
Covington Signature Dentistry provides solutions for all your dental problems. Visit us at 27121 174th Place SE #202, Covington, WA 98042, United States. Contact us at (+1) 253-638-9955 or visit our website to book an appointment with us.