Bad Breath

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be an embarrassing issue in both social and professional settings. While products like gum, mints, and mouthwashes are widely available to temporarily mask bad breath, they often fail to address its root causes. Factors such as certain foods, tobacco use, poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, and medical conditions can contribute to persistent bad breath. Consistent proper oral care, including brushing, flossing, and cleaning the tongue, can significantly improve your breath. However, if self-care techniques don’t resolve the issue, it may indicate an underlying cause that requires professional evaluation.

Common Causes of Bad Breath

The sources of bad breath can vary widely:

• Food: Certain foods like onions, garlic, and spices can cause odors that linger, even after digestion.
• Tobacco: Smoking or chewing tobacco leads to unpleasant odors and increases the risk of gum disease.
• Poor Dental Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow food particles and bacteria to build up, causing plaque and bad breath.
• Dry Mouth: Saliva cleanses the mouth, and reduced saliva production (xerostomia) can lead to odor-causing bacteria.
• Medications and Medical Conditions: Some medications cause dry mouth, while conditions like gum disease, GERD, or tonsil stones can also lead to bad breath.

If your bad breath persists despite maintaining good oral hygiene, schedule an appointment with our office for a personalized assessment and treatment.