Why Do I Have Bad Breath? Your Dentist Explains

Bad breath is something that’s embarrassing to deal with whether you are the victim of it or the perpetrator. It’s never fun to tell someone they have bad breath, and it’s even worse to hear that you have it! So, what causes this condition and what can you do about it? Your dentist has answers – read on.

Common Causes of Bad Breath

Halitosis, or bad breath, occurs for a number of reasons such as:

• Certain foods or beverages like garlic, onions, and coffee
• The condition dry mouth
• Poor oral hygiene
• Smoking or tobacco use
• Certain illnesses like pneumonia, bronchitis, or sinus infections

If you have chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away, it could actually be a sign of more significant problem. One of the early signs of periodontal (gum) disease is chronic halitosis. So if you can’t get rid of your bad breath on your own, it may be time to contact your dentist for a thorough cleaning and checkup.

How to Eliminate and Prevent Bad Breath

Making sure that you are brushing your teeth at least twice each day and flossing at least once using proper techniques is the best way to control halitosis. You might consider changing to an electric toothbrush, which tends to remove more plaque for some patients than brushing manually.

Using an antibacterial mouth rinse can help to eliminate bad breath and doesn’t add much additional time to your home care routine. Talk with your dentist about the right products for your needs.

Drinking water throughout your day can help get rid of bad breath by rinsing excess food particles away, and keeping your mouth hydrated.

Quitting smoking or tobacco use will also help eliminate bad breath and benefit your oral health in many other ways such as decreasing your risk of developing oral cancer.

Contact Your Dentist

If you find that you are trying one or more of the above suggestions with little to no success in eliminating your bad breath, contact your dentist.

Your dentist and hygienist can detect gum disease in its earliest stage (gingivitis), and the good news is that this condition can typically be managed with a thorough professional cleaning and improvements to your home care routine.

If gum disease is left untreated, it will progress into more advanced stages (periodontitis) that could eventually result in tooth loss.

Contact your dentist today for more information.

About Boyles General Dentistry

Dr. Franklin Boyles has been providing patients in Odessa, TX with exceptional personalized dentistry for over 40 years. His son, Dr. Stephen Boyles is now honored to join him and carry on the tradition. Patients love the one-on-one attention they receive when they choose Boyles General Dentistry as their dental home.

Would you like to contact our dentists? They can be reached by calling 432-366-0896 or through our website.