5 Reasons Why You May Have Bad Breath (and How to Fix It)
If you’re struggling with bad breath (also known as halitosis), it may be the result of a temporary issue that can be wiped a way with a single brushing. However, it could also be a sign of a larger underlying health concern.
Your mouth and body is filled with millions of bacteria—both good and bad! However, when harmful bacteria reside in your mouth or stomach for too long, it can create some frustrating and even painful illnesses. Bad breath is often a frustrating side effect of these illnesses. So if you are struggling with halitosis, it is possible you’re dealing with one of the following issues:
1. You’re suffering from dry mouth.
Do you have difficulty swallowing dry foods? Is it hard to speak for long periods of time because of mouth dryness? It is likely that your halitosis is the result of dry mouth. This is because your mouth isn’t properly producing saliva, which washes away harmful bacteria and cleans your mouth. There are a number of reasons this could be occurring—including certain medications or dehydration. Be certain to bring this to your dentist’s attention upon your next visit to Hinsdale Dental!
2. You have gum disease.
Gums that are inflamed or infected have a tendency to secrete an odorous scent. Unfortunately, brushing cannot cure this issue, and it can lead to major health concerns like cardiovascular disease, stroke, respiratory illness, and even complications with pregnancy. Your dentist will be able to check for signs of gum disease and gingivitis during your regular biannual visit and get you on track towards curing the problem.
3. Your tonsils may need to be removed.
Not surprisingly, bacteria that give you bad breath can also be harmful to your throat. If you’re constantly getting sore throats and experiencing bad breath, it is possible that tonsillitis is the culprit. This is often cured with surgical intervention, which can ultimately help both your sickness and the halitosis!
4. You’re dealing with stomach issues.
Unfortunately, stomach ulcers don’t just stop at giving you terrible stomach pain and heartburn. The bacteria that commonly cause stomach ulcers are also responsible for bad breath. Acid reflux is also a potential offender, as the acid that derives from the stomach can produce a bad smell.
5. You need to amp up your oral hygiene routine.
A good dental hygiene routine is critical for preventing dental decay, gum disease, and malodourous bacteria from forming. We strongly recommend you brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once every evening. You might also consider implementing an antibacterial mouthwash into your routine. Finally, your best bet for combatting oral health issues that lead to bad breath is regular biannual visits to the dentist office. At Hinsdale Dental, we’ll examine your mouth for decay and disease, perform a professional cleaning, and educate you on the best ways to improve your oral health.
Ready to set up your appointment? Call Hinsdale Dental today to get started on your track to better dental health!
Return to Blog