The Causes of Bad Breath
By: drprice | Tuesday, December 15th, 2020 | General Dentistry
Tuesday, December 15th, 2020
Bad breath strikes us all from time to time. It’s sometimes unavoidable, especially if we enjoy eating especially pungent foods. You may notice an odor on your breath after that garlic-laden meal or a salad with a healthy portion of onions. These are the minor frustrations that can be handled by drinking extra water, chewing some mint gum, or brushing teeth after consuming notoriously smelly foods. What if bad breath isn’t related to foods, though? And what if it persists day after day or gets worse over time? This is a problem that can be handled between you and your dentist.
When bad breath is not caused by food, it is important to schedule a dental exam and cleaning. The odor could be a sign of a few different problems that your dentist can treat. Some of the common causes of bad breath include:
- Plaque and tartar buildup. If you brush only once a day and do not floss your teeth, you have a higher risk of plaque and tartar buildup. Plaque is an invisible film that harbors not only debris but also bacteria. Bacteria deposit waste onto teeth and gums that can become foul-smelling. Your dentist can perform a thorough cleaning that removes plaque and tartar and gives you a fresh slate to improved oral health – and better breath!
- A dirty tongue. Just like debris can accumulate on the teeth and gums, it also often builds up on the back of the tongue. Sulfurous waste from bacteria travels on the breath. The tongue can be brushed with the toothbrush. However, a tongue scraper is a better idea. This can be purchased at a pharmacy and should be used gently so as not to irritate delicate tissue.
- Gum infection. Whether it is a mild form of gingivitis or full-blown periodontal disease, infection carries bacteria. Gum disease in all of its forms is a common cause of bad breath. Professional treatment can eradicate the infection and restore integrity to the gums. Treatment should be followed with good oral health practices that include brushing twice a day and flossing every day.
- Dehydration and fasting. If you are dehydrated or regularly skip meals, your mouth will produce less saliva. Saliva carries odorous bacteria from the mouth and can be stimulated by chewing gum and sipping water throughout the day.
We can help you get a handle on bad breath. Call (703)-935-2879 to schedule your visit with Burke, VA dentist Dr. Stephen Price.
