‘Tis the season for scary Halloween costumes and trick-or-treating! Even though it’s the perfect month to scare others, you don’t want to scare them with your breath. If you’re suffering from chronic halitosis (bad breath), here’s what you need to know about wrangling in the bad breath monster and taking back control of your smile!
Common Causes of Bad Breath
Wondering what’s at the root of your bad breath? It can be difficult pinpointing exactly what’s causing yours. However, here are some of the most common factors that can lead to bad halitosis!
Poor Dietary Choices
The food you eat can have a large impact on your breath. Not only can certain foods cause bad breath while eating them, but they can also cause bad breath after they are digested. Once digested, foods enter the bloodstream and the lungs, which can affect the smell of your breath.
Medications
Certain medications can cause dry mouth and bad breath. Check the side effect section of your medication to determine if it’s causing your mouth odor.
Improper Oral Hygiene Regimen
A poor oral hygiene regimen can have a huge effect on your breath. If you don’t brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day and floss daily, your breath will most likely start to smell. When the mouth isn’t properly cleaned, plaque and tartar will build up and bad bacteria will run rampant. This can lead to chronic bad breath.
Tobacco Usage
Tobacco is a leading cause of halitosis. Tobacco usage creates a breeding ground for bacteria. It also increases the likelihood of gum disease which is also closely linked to mouth odor.
Treating Your Halitosis at the Dentist
Are you struggling with mouth odor? Don’t let it go any longer! Schedule a dental appointment today! Biannual dental cleanings and exams can help you get your halitosis under control. With regular dental appointments, you can keep bad bacteria and decay at bay and enjoy a healthy, odor-free smile!
Don’t have a dental home? Look no further than Reen Chung, DDS! Our dental team is passionate about helping patients enjoy a lifetime of great oral health. Contact us today!
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