Mount your assault against bad breath. Your Marlton dentist is here to join ranks with you to ensure your optimum dental care by revealing some of the possible causes of bad breath and how to prevent them.
What Causes Bad Breath?
There are some things to be on the lookout for.
- Bacteria – These guys get a “bad rap,” but they are necessary for our optimum health in a balanced state. However, there are times when they are a little troublesome. They love heat, so when inside of your mouth (which is a warm, comfortable oven for them) they grow. When you eat, they feed on the leftover food in your mouth and can leave an odious trail.
- Food – Not only does food leave bacteria in the mouth, but certain foods also cause more offensive odors, like garlic, onions, coffee, etc.
- Gum Disease – Constant bad breath can be a sign of gum disease, which is the result of a buildup of bacteria called plaque.
- Smoking and Tobacco – Not only does smoking stain your teeth, it also contributes to bad breath. Furthermore, tobacco use irritates your gums and increases the chances for gum disease.
- Medical Conditions – If a lack of brushing and flossing have been ruled out as causes of bad breath, then there is a possibility of a mouth infection. Also, issues like sinus conditions, gastric reflux, diabetes, or kidney disease can also contribute.
How Do I Correct Bad Breath?
The remedies are simple and effective, starting with brushing and flossing your teeth. We’ve heard about it since childhood, but it still reigns supreme. Brushing twice a day and flossing rid the mouth of a great deal of the bacteria that cause bad breath, contributing to overall dental health.
The next simple method of defense is tongue care. Taking time to examine your tongue is a key to preventing bad breath. Towards the back of your tongue, look for any brown coating. This is where bad breath bacteria are located. Using a toothbrush or tongue scraper to clear them works well.
Next, keep your juices flowing. Saliva acts as an internal washing system for your mouth. To stimulate your natural production, eat more healthy foods that require chewing. Also, eating sugar-free candies or chewing sugar-free gum are options, remaining mindful that these are not substitutions for regular brushing and flossing.
Along with the natural well spring of saliva in your mouth, you can use mouthwash to help with cleansing and neutralizing bacteria. But again, it cannot replace brushing and flossing.
Visiting your dentist for regularly scheduled visits is one of the best tools in your arsenal to fight dental issues like bad breath. It also ensures your optimal dental health, addressing any minor issues before they become major.
About the Author
Dr. Joseph Sandberg, DMD, MAGD has been delivering masterful, personalized dental services to South Jersey communities for over 30 years. An award-winning dentist, Dr. Sandberg continues to further his knowledge of dentistry, while remaining committed to expert patient care. Visit his website to learn more about his services.