Bad Breath: What’s The Problem?

Perhaps you are trying to figure out how you could possibly have bad breath. After all, you have a toothbrush and toothpaste! Dental floss, too! All of which you use at least most of the time as we have suggested. You have even stopped eating all things extremely smelly like garlic and onions. Still, though, your halitosis persists. We understand that this can feel like an uphill battle. Fortunately, there are some easy answers. Of course, when you cannot seem to resolve the issue, coming in for a visit with us is always the best next step.

How’s Your Mouth? Is It Desert-Like?

Do you notice that you often feel parched? Do you wake up with cotton mouth? When you deal with this issue, the likely cause is something we refer to as “dry mouth.” It means you are not producing enough saliva, so your tissues are not moist. Saliva isn’t helping to rinse bacteria from oral tissues like it should, so bacteria stay in place and multiply. The result? You guessed it: Bad breath! Dry mouth might be the result of drinking too little water, mouth breathing (something that commonly accompanies congestion), medication side effects, and more.

Did You Say You Usually Brush And Floss?

If you usually brush and floss but you miss sessions here and there, the results can lead to bad breath. Plaque (filled with bacteria) adheres to your smile every day. When you get rid of it, you remove odor-causing bacteria. When you don’t, the plaque (and food particles) remain on teeth, between teeth, and beneath your gumline. Get serious about twice daily brushing and once daily flossing to eliminate this problem. (Note: Stay serious about twice-annual cleanings with us, too, for effective results).