If your breath is sending others running in
the opposite direction, it is time to schedule an appointment with your dentist
who can get to the root of your chronic halitosis.
According to Web MD, there are several
reasons that people are afraid to talk to you face to face. It could have
something to do with a medication you are currently taking or it may be your
diet, however, your dentist will tell you that the number one reason people
have bad breath is poor oral hygiene habits.
Good oral health habits include brushing
twice and flossing once each day. A healthy diet loaded with fruits and
vegetables and regular checkups with your dentist should be included in your
oral health regime.
The majority of bad breath will start in your
mouth and occurs because of bacteria. Food is probably the number one cause if
you do not have dental problems. When certain types of foods break down, the leftover
food particles can increase the bacteria causing halitosis. Garlic and onions
are the biggest culprits as once digested they will stay in your system for 72
hours travelling through your bloodstream and into your lungs.
If you smoke, you may want to quit as smoking
and other types of tobacco use will cause bad breathe. Smokers are also more susceptible
to gum disease, which is another cause of halitosis.
As mentioned above, poor dental hygiene is
the leading cause of bad breath. People who do not brush or floss will develop
a sticky plaque or film of bacteria on their teeth. If it is not brushed away,
that plaque will irritate your gum line eventually causing gingivitis. If left
to its own devices gingivitis will form pockets that are filled with puss in-between
your teeth and gums causing periodontitis. The more dangerous form of gum
disease, periodontal disease, could have been prevented had you practiced good
oral hygiene. Make sure that you also brush your tongue as the uneven surface
can trap odor-causing bacteria. If you wear dentures, clean them regularly and
make sure that you see your dentist regularly as ill-fitting dentures can also
cause chronic bad breath.
Chronic dry mouth, mouth infections, and
medications can inadvertently cause halitosis as well. If you have recently had
oral surgery, you may also experience bad breath.
In most cases bad breath can be prevented,
but only if you practice good oral hygiene and see your dentist regularly.
If chronic bad breath
is becoming a problem for you or someone you know, schedule an appointment with
your dentist today. Call or click now.
