What Can I Do If I Have Bad Breath?

Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning.

There are various reasons one may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially the back of the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent.

What May Cause Bad Breath?

Morning time

Saliva flow almost stops during sleep and its reduced cleansing action allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.

Certain foods

Garlic, onions, etc. Foods containing odor-causing compounds enter the bloodstream; they are transferred to the lungs, where they are exhaled.

Poor oral hygiene habits

Food particles remaining in the mouth promote bacterial growth.

Periodontal (gum) disease

Colonies of bacteria and food debris residing under inflamed gums.

Dental cavities and improperly fitted dental appliances

It may also contribute to bad breath.

Dry mouth (Xerostomia)

It may be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous mouth breathing.

Tobacco products

Dry the mouth, causing bad breath.

Dieting

Certain chemicals called ketones are released in the breath as the body burns fat.

Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals

Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria away.

Certain medical conditions and illnesses

Diabetes, liver and kidney problems, chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia are several conditions that may contribute to bad breath. Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad breath. Also, review your current medications, recent surgeries, or illnesses with your dentist.

What Can I Do To Prevent Bad Breath?

Practice good oral hygiene

Brush at least twice a day with an CDA-approved fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gumline. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the back areas. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth in the morning.

See your dentist regularly

Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. If you have or have had periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend more frequent visits.

Stop smoking/chewing tobacco

Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break the habit.

Drink water frequently

Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria.

Use mouthwash/rinses

Some over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask dentist in NE Calgary about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem. In most cases, your dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that your mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your dentist may refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor and an appropriate treatment plan.

Concerned about bad breath? It could be a sign of an underlying dental issue. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Brent MacDonald, a trusted NE Calgary periodontist , for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

Call +1 (403) 273-6959 to breathe easier with confidence!