Is Bad Breath Holding You Back From Living Your Best Life?

Dental issues. Bad breath can be caused by dental issues such as gum disease or cavities. Crowded teeth or ill-fitting dental appliances can also cause bad breath as bacteria can be entrapped where it does not belong. See your dentist to rule out any oral care issues as a culprit.

Bacteria. Without proper brushing, flossing, and regular visits to the dentist, bacteria are not being removed from your mouth. The build-up of these sticky bacteria can lead to bad breath. By following the ADA recommendation of brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and routine visits to the dentist, you can keep bacteria in check.  This bacteria is also deleterious and inflammatory to other systems in your body, including around your heart.  Your entire body benefits when you brush, floss, and see your dentist regularly for check-ups.  Also, make sure to brush your tongue.  The main cause of bad breath is due to the bacteria on the back your tongue, so it is recommended to gently brush your tongue with your toothbrush and toothpaste.  Additionally, you can use a tongue scraper from back to front after brushing.  

Dry mouth. Lack of saliva creates dry mouth, which may be a side effect of medications, smoking, or mouth breathing or it could be a symptom of an underlying health concern. Talk to your dentist about dry mouth for the best remedies for both dry mouth and resulting bad breath.  Dry mouth can also lead to other issues, including decay, so it should be addressed by a dental professional.

Tonsilloliths or tonsil stones.  These are calcifications that form in the crypts of the palatal tonsils. They are also known to form in the throat and on the roof of the mouth. Tonsils are filled with crevices where bacteria and other materials, including dead cells and mucus, can become trapped.  Often seeking the help an ENT doctor is indicated for more severe cases.  For routine tonsil stones, the regular use of a water pick filled with an antibacterial solution directed at irrigating the tonsils can be hugely beneficial.

Disease. Sinus infections, tonsillitis, respiratory issues, and even diabetes can result in bad breath. Your doctor may prescribe medication for these conditions which may make dry mouth, and resulting bad breath worse. Talk to your doctor if your side effects are problematic.

Do you have questions or comments about your options regarding bad breath or halitosis?  Feel free to email or call us for a consultation.  At Metropolitan Dental Care we feel that communication between patient and doctor is crucial to the success of any treatment.