Bad breath can happen to the best of us after a potent meal. But we can get rid of this acute bad breath with oral hygiene in most cases. We brush away lingering food particles that cause this odor and therefore resolve this uncomfortable symptom.
But if bad breath persists or becomes chronic, it might be a sign you have an underlying dental problem. Chronic bad breath, or halitosis, will need an evaluation from your dentist to pinpoint the cause and resolve the issue.
You can improve your chances of fighting bad breath when you know some of the common causes of this symptom. Read on to learn about four primary reasons you might develop chronic bad breath.
Why Do I Have Bad Breath?
Eating Strong Foods
Your diet can be a major factor when it comes to forming bad breath. Food particles that remain in your smile will start to decay, and this produces a disruptive smell. The odor usually goes away when you brush, floss, or rinse your teeth though.
However, certain strong foods like onions or garlic transfer their fragrant oils to your bloodstream which will then reach your lungs. This can leave you with bad breath that can endure for longer than a day, even when you complete your oral hygiene regimen. Pay attention to the foods and drinks you consume to ensure they do not impact your breath in this way.
Poor Oral Habits
Oral hygiene removes more than just food particles. Brushing and flossing your teeth will scrub away plaque too, a film made from the natural bacteria within your mouth. If left on your teeth, plaque will generate an odor that will contribute to bad breath.
Adhere to a thorough oral hygiene routine with proper techniques and tools in order to keep your smile clean, healthy, and fresh-smelling. Other poor oral habits can exacerbate halitosis too, including smoking or chewing tobacco. So take care of your smile to ensure your breath stays fresh and pleasant.
Dry Mouth
If you experience a tacky or sticky feeling within your mouth, this dry mouth condition could not only feel unpleasant, but it can put you at risk of bad breath. Dry mouth occurs when your mouth produces less saliva, creating an environment where bacteria can more easily spread.
This is commonly caused by dehydration, so drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep your smile looking, feeling, and smelling its best. If dry mouth persists even when you drink a lot of water, talk to your dentist. This could point to an underlying oral health problem.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is a common type of infection affecting the gum tissue. It often begins with swelling, redness, and bleeding in the gums. As the disease progresses, bacteria will collect in the gum pockets, resulting in a foul odor that will present on your breath.
Reduce your risk of contracting gum disease by continuing good oral hygiene. If you do notice issues with your gums, seek urgent periodontal therapy from your dentist. The infection will not go away on its own and will worsen without prompt dental intervention.