Whether it’s ours or someone else’s, we’ve all experienced bad breath at some point or another. It’s not uncommon to get bad breath occasionally. However, there may be cause for concern if you’re getting bad breath particularly frequently. If this is the case, we would recommend going to see dentists in Banstead. Halitosis (bad breath) can often be a symptom of an underlying health issue.
We’ve compiled a list of possible causes of your bad breath so you can identify the issue and take action if necessary.
So, let’s jump straight in, shall we?
Smelly Food, Smelly Breath
Sounds pretty obvious, right?
Some foods just smell worse than others. Maybe your morning coffee or your habit of adding garlic to every meal is the source of your problems.
You should also be wary of any foods likely to dehydrate you, like anything containing caffeine, as this will slow the production of saliva. Saliva is needed to fight bad bacteria. Those with diets high in sugar may also experience bad breath.
Dieting could also be the cause of your bad breath. Unhealthy dieting habits are extremely unhealthy for your body and may produce ketones that smell bad.
Don't Neglect Your Pearly Whites
Again, this one goes without saying, but don’t forget about your oral health.
Make sure you’re always using the right techniques and not neglecting certain areas in the mouth, as this will likely lead to a bacteria buildup.
Also, don’t forget to floss or use an interdental brush. If you’re still getting bad breath, it may be that your tongue isn’t clean. In this case, maybe consider getting a tongue scraper.
Medical Conditions
Medical conditions that affect the mouth or throat, like tonsillitis, often cause halitosis.
Moreover, certain medications, like contraceptive pills or antidepressants, can change the way your body processes bacteria, resulting in gum disease.
Dental issues such as gum disease and tooth decay can cause bad breath. If you’re unsure, make sure to book an appointment with your dentist.
Sip Away Throughout the Day
One of the most common causes of bad breath is dehydration.
Always make sure you have plenty of saliva in your mouth to fight any harmful bacteria. Keep a water bottle on hand throughout the day and chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.
Reign in the Smoke
Again, this may seem obvious, but nicotine is a big cause of bad breath, made worse by the fact that smoking dries out the mouth.
Excessive smoking can also stain the tongue and cause you to lose your sense of smell.
Leave it to Us
All you can do if you’re concerned about your bad breath is book an appointment with a dental professional.
Epsom Smiles will perform a detailed examination and work hard to identify the issue. If it proves to be a dental problem, they will likely suggest a suitable course of action.
We are passionate about the health and happiness of our patients and always strive to make sure they are satisfied with their care. If you have any questions or would like to book an appointment to discuss your halitosis, please contact us today.
You deserve to smile wide!
