Why Is My Breath Bad and What Can I Do About It?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing. Fortunately, there are many things that you can do to improve your breath. The exact course of action may vary, as there are many reasons for bad breath. Taking actions to make your breath smell better is worth it, though, as it can improve your confidence and possibly even your relationships.

Check In with Your Dentist

First and foremost, check in with your Jacksonville dentist if you feel that you have bad breath. While most bad breath is caused by something to do with oral hygiene, some medical conditions will also cause bad breath. Your dentist will be able to identify cues that your bad breath may be caused by a medical condition and refer you to a medical doctor if necessary.

Your dentist will also clean your teeth thoroughly. This can help to get rid of lingering plaque that may be sticking to your teeth and causing bad breath. Additionally, your dentist can help you with issues like misalignments that may be causing food particles to become trapped and causing bad breath.

Brush and Floss Regularly

Brushing and flossing regularly will help to get rid of bad breath immediately, but it may also help to curb bad breath throughout the day. Removing food particles, keeping the teeth free from plaque, and scraping the tongue can help to prevent the sulfur compounds that cause the odor from forming. These sulfur compounds are released when bacteria breaks down food particles.

Evaluate Your Habits

Cigarette smoke causes bad breath and increases the chances of developing gum disease, which can worsen breath even more. Certain drugs and medications can reduce saliva and release chemicals that affect the breath. Coffee creates a lingering odor in the mouth that can be tough to get rid of. Cutting back or quitting certain habits can help to ease bad breath.

Stay Hydrated

A lack of saliva can make it tough for the mouth to cleanse itself, which is most often experienced with “morning breath.” Drinking plenty of water can help to flush out the mouth, preventing dry mouth and working to wash away debris and plaque between brushings. Avoid sugary beverages, as these can cause plaque that can lead to bad breath.

Watch What You Eat

Certain foods such as onions and garlic cause bad breath, and not just when they’re ingested. After digestion, there are certain chemicals that are carried back to the lungs, where they’re expelled. This means that onions and garlic can continue to affect your breath for hours. While these foods are healthy, you may wish to avoid them when you are trying to prevent unfavorable breath.

By understanding the root causes of bad breath, you can work to sweeten it. When in doubt, schedule an appointment with your local dental office to identify underlying causes and rule out medical issues.

For informational purposes only.