There are 4 Main Causes of Bad Breath:
- Dry mouth: AKA Xerostomia. Dryness of your mouth can be caused by medication (80% of most pharmaceutical drugs often cause dry mouth. Certain drugs such as antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, and antihistamines can factor into dry mouth because they reduce saliva production. Long periods of speaking, sleeping with your mouth open, and drinking alcohol. “OK, so I can’t stop taking my meds… what can I do?” The answer: Drink lots and lots and LOTS of water every day. Make sure you quench your thirst with water and not soda or other harmful, sweet, and acidic drinks. Remember, sipping water throughout the day makes the smell go away.
- Diet: Bad breath also known as Halitosis is often caused by the foods we eat. Foods which have sulfuric compounds such as onions and garlic can cause bad breath. Meat, dairy and fish have a certain type of protein which bacteria in our mouths use as an energy source and also release sulfuric compounds. Since we can’t stop eating these foods our best bet is to floss after every meal, as well as rinse and drink LOTS and LOTS of water. Hmm… I see a pattern!
- Poor Dental Hygiene: this one is a no brainer. If you don’t brush or floss your teeth regularly there will be plaque and bacterial build-up. Simple! Furthermore, bad oral hygiene will most certainly lead to gum tissues to erode, as well as inflammation or puffy gums, and of course cavities and further dental treatment. Remember our mouths are our temples. Course of action: Brush 2 x a day, minimum flossing 2 x a week. Another thing to mention is you should be changing your toothbrush head at least 4 x a year, and after you become sick.
- Illness and disease: Ok so not a lot but According to some studies, an estimated 10% of all halitosis cases are caused by certain illnesses. Individuals who suffer from diabetes, lung disease, kidney disease, cancer, liver disease, respiratory tract infections, or metabolic disorders often experience chronic foul breath due to dry mouth. Sinusitis, pneumonia, bronchitis, postnasal drip, and polyps affect the airways and may also contribute to the problem. Other common illnesses associated with bad breath include nasal odor, yeast infections of the mouth, and gum disease. Remember: if you have bad breath this doesn’t necessarily mean you have an illness.
In conclusion, drinking lots of water, along with eating healthy and practicing good oral hygiene is the best way to stay away from bad breath.
On a side note: If you have a bad taste in your mouth that won’t go away and you can taste it often even after flossing and brushing, that could be an indication that there is a type of dental infection, so please see your Dentist immediately. Hope you learned lots! Thanks for checking us out!