Food
What you eat affects the air you exhale, like garlic or onions. If you don’t brush and floss daily, particles of food can remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath.
Gum disease
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can warn of gum disease (caused by plaque accumulation).
Dry mouth
This occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. It can be caused by various medications, salivary gland problems or continuously breathing through the mouth. Without enough saliva, food particles are not cleaned away.
Medical conditions
Some diseases have symptoms related to bad breath. Sinus or lung infections, bronchitis, diabetes and some liver or kidney diseases may be associated with bad breath.
Smoking & Tobacco
In addition to staining teeth and being bad for overall health, tobacco use contributes to bad breath. Users are more likely to suffer gum disease and are at greater risk for developing oral cancer.
If you’re concerned about your bad breath, make an appointment to see your dentist.
Regular checkups allow your dentist to detect any problems such as gum disease or dry mouth. Maintaining good oral hygiene, eliminating gum disease and scheduling regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath. Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily with floss. Brush your tongue too, and if you wear dentures, be sure to remove them at night and clean them thoroughly before replacing them the next morning.
