Categories: Patient Education

Bad Breath: A Sign Of Something Worse?

Do you feel self-conscious about your breath? Are you tired of people trying to back away from you when you’re talking? Are you tired of being too self-conscious to make a move on that cute waiter at the coffee shop because you know how bad your breath is? You’re not alone. Besides the embarrassment that comes with bad breath, it can also be a sign of something worse. Here are some of the issues that cause bad breath (halitosis), as well as some ways to treat it.

Some Causes Of Halitosis

  1. Poor dental hygiene. Poor dental hygiene is the leading cause of halitosis. Without regular brushing and flossing, you can have a buildup of food particles that slowly break down, creating a foul odor.
  2. An oral health issue. Bad breath can also be a sign that you have developed tooth decay, gum disease, or another issue that your dentist needs to treat.

Cures For Halitosis

  1. Regular brushing and flossing. Brushing at least twice a day for at least two minutes, along with regularly flossing, is key in fighting bad breath. Brushing only cleans around 60% of the surface of the tooth, so flossing is important to remove the plaque and food particles between your teeth. This, along with regular check-ups and cleanings from your dentist, will go a long way in helping you avoid bad breath.
  2. Keep yourself hydrated. Drinking plenty of water, avoiding anything that dehydrates your mouth and doing things that help stimulate the creation of saliva (like chewing gum or sucking on a sweet candy) will help keep your breath fresh. If your mouth is chronically dry, you should visit a doctor, who may prescribe medication to help stimulate the flow of saliva.

Have A Fresh, Healthy Smile

Our staff can provide you with the treatments you need to have a beautiful, healthy, and fresh smile. Contact us at our local Grand Prairie, TX office at 972-262-5111.

Dr. Smith

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