Causes Of Bad Breath
Date: September 30, 2018Category: Author: Debra Quailes
We’ve all experienced that embarrassing day you’re rushing out the door and forget to brush your teeth… It can result in some awkward feelings and the desperate search for a mint or piece of gum to cover it up. However, there are other causes of bad breath, also known as halitosis, that vary in severity and treatment. Keep reading to learn more!
Causes of Bad Breath
One cause of halitosis is gingivitis.
Gingivitis is a gum disease where bacteria builds up and inflames your gums. This can cause bad breath, pain, and when left untreated, results in periodontitisa much more severe case of gingivitis. Periodontitis will leave you with even worse bad breath and possible tooth loss.
Tonsil stones or tonsillitis are other culprits of bad breath…
Tonsil stones are small, calcified lumps that can get caught and build up in the open places of your tonsils… If left to fester and become infected, or due to another infection, these can develop into tonsillitis. Tonsil stones and tonsillitis can also be painful and may require professional assistance if you can’t easily cough up the stones.
Another cause of bad breath is a dental abscess.
An abscess is a pocket of festering pus and bacteria usually found in between your gum and tooth. Abscesses can result in rot, so of course that would be a very unpleasant smell and even a sour taste in your mouth as well. It is very important to see your dentist if you suspect you have an abscess, as they can cause much bigger complications besides bad breath.
I’m sure you’ve noticed a theme of how allowing bacteria to multiply in your mouth can have some very adverse effects in addition to causing bad breath… This is why oral hygiene and regularly scheduled dentist visits are so important to your oral and even general health. Be sure to always brush and floss your teeth after meals and before and after waking up. It is also helpful to avoid smoking and to stay hydrated.
Smoking is one of the most common causes of halitosis, as well as being harmful to other parts of your body.
Staying hydrated will also help you with saliva production to avoid bad breath, since saliva helps wash away particles on and between your teeth that may fester throughout the day.
Last but not least, your diet also contributes to causing bad breath. Strong smelling foods such as onions, fish, and some cheeses may be best avoided right before an important meeting or date. 😉