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Your Periodontist in Chicago on Bad Breath – The Causes
Posted on December 24th, 2021
What Causes Bad Breath
Realizing your breath smells is not only embarrassing, it can be disconcerting, especially if it is a chronic problem. Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be an unavoidable part of life sometimes, like when we wake up in the morning or eat something pungent. However, if bad breath is a frequent issue for someone, it can impact their happiness and self-confidence.
There are a number of things that may cause bad breath, some of which, like using tobacco products and eating certain foods, are well-known causes. Other reasons for developing bad breath, especially if the condition is chronic, can include the following:
- Bacteria in the Mouth (some people have an overabundance of certain bacteria in their mouth that causes bad breath)
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Cavities
- Infected or Impacted Wisdom Teeth
- Infections
- Dry Mouth/Dehydration
- Medication
- Metabolic Disorders
- Gum Disease
- Certain Cancers
- Sinus Issues (i.e. a sinus infection, allergies, etc.)
If you suffer from bad breath and are tired of always keeping mints on hand, or worrying about whether or not someone else will notice, continue reading for some helpful tips on how to keep your breath fresh.
10 Tips to Help Eliminate Bad Breath
- Regular Dental Appointments – When you go for regular dental visits, you receive a thorough examination and a professional dental cleaning each time. This helps prevent tooth decay, plaque and tartar build-up, and allows your dentist to identify any issues before they get worse. Additionally, cavities cause bad breath, so visiting your dentist will help prevent them, and also ensures that any you do have will be treated promptly.
- Floss – Flossing is important because it gets hard-to-reach food particles out from between your teeth and along the gum line, preventing bacteria accumulation. You should floss at least once a day to help eliminate bad breath.
- Scrape Your Tongue – A lot of bacteria can accumulate on the tongue. Be sure to use a tongue scraper (often you can find toothbrushes that come with them) or your toothbrush bristles to clean your tongue when you brush your teeth.
- Use Mouthwash – Mouthwash helps get rid of bacteria to eliminate bad breath and prevent tooth decay.
- Avoid Certain Foods – Try to eat less of, or avoid eating, things like onion, garlic, harsh spices, and even carbonated beverages (these can lower the pH levels in your mouth, causing your mouth to become dry, which elevates bacteria growth).
- Chew Sugar-Free Gum – Besides smelling minty fresh, chewing gum can stimulate saliva production which helps decrease bacteria in the mouth that causes bad breath.
- Drink More Water – Staying hydrated is important for preventing dry mouth, which we already know promotes the growth of bacteria that causes bad breath.
- Use Dental Probiotics – Dental probiotics are designed to help decrease bad bacteria in the mouth and prevent tooth decay by strengthening teeth.
- Use a Humidifier – Using a humidifier can help moisten the air in your home, which helps prevent your nasal passages, throat, and mouth from drying out.
- Avoid Tobacco Products – Be sure to avoid smoking cigarettes, chewing tobacco, cigars, and other tobacco products, as all of them are notorious for causing bad breath.
Windy City Family Dental for Dental Cleanings in River North
If you are looking for a qualified dentist and periodontist near the Loop to help you get your bad breath under control, visit us at Windy City Family Dental. From exams and professional dental cleanings in Chicago, to periodontal treatment and preventative care, our team is here to make sure your teeth and gums stay healthy throughout your life.
