Causes and Treatments for Bad Breath in Mesa
If you suffer from bad breath, it can be embarrassing and stressful. Bad breath is also called halitosis, and it can be caused from certain foods, poor health, or improper oral hygiene habits. Sometimes people cannot detect their own bad breath. Asking a confidant for their honest opinion is a reliable way to assess how your breath smells.
Causes of Halitosis
There are several common causes of halitosis, including:
- Poor Dental Hygiene Habits – When people neglect brushing and flossing their teeth and gums, bacteria cause tooth decay and gum disease, both of which cause halitosis. Bacteria may be hiding in deep pockets within the gums, developing into plaque and tartar. This stubborn substance can only be removed by a dental professional.
- Sugary Diets - Avoiding sugary foods prevents odor causing bacteria from multiplying. If possible, rinse your mouth out with water or keep a portable toothbrush on you to clean your teeth during the day. Include fibrous food to your diet like carrots, celery, apples or pears as the friction while chewing those foods removes bacteria and promotes saliva production.
- Tobacco Use – Tobacco leaves smoke particles in the throat and lungs that can linger for hours. Tobacco dries out the oral cavity, which creates a climate where odor causing bacteria thrive. Tobacco also weakens the gums by restricting blood flow. This further accelerates the growth of bacteria, causing bad breath.
- Acid Reflux – This is caused by acid coming back up to the esophagus, which can create bad breath. Talk to your doctor if you experience heart burn or indigestion.
- Medical Prescriptions – some medications also contribute to bad breath. Dry mouth, a common symptom of many medications, can contribute to a poor oral environment.
- Infections – Any type of infection in the upper respiratory region can contribute to bad breath like bronchitis, sinusitis, or tonsillitis.
- Foods, Spices, and Beverages - Garlic, onion, coffee, and fish also create bad breath that may require a few days to diminish.
Bad breath is commonly a temporary condition. If you practice proper oral hygiene and a healthy lifestyle, then halitosis should be easily treated. If your bad breath is persistent, then seeking medical attention may be necessary for you to find the root of the problem.
Contact Dr. Jonathan Kalika and his Associates for Important Routine Dental Visits
Routine visits to the dentist are part of an effective plan to eliminate bad breath. Dr. Jonathan Kalika provides outstanding preventive and hygienic dental care. Contact Dental Center of Mesa to keep your smile fresh and clean.