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Bad breath can be embarrassing. Read our best tips for combating bad breath.
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In this article, the dental health professionals at Blid will share their tips for getting rid of bad breath and explain how it arises.
The best tip for preventing bad breath is to maintain good oral hygiene. This includes brushing twice a day, using dental floss or interdental brushes at least once a day, and daily cleaning of the tongue. Additionally, using a fluoride mouthwash can help.
If you are undergoing dental treatment at Blid, we can provide you with guidance to achieve good oral hygiene. We will show you the correct brushing technique and how to use tools like dental floss, interdental brushes, and tongue scrapers, so you can combat bad breath effectively. We also assess if the breath issue could be due to gum inflammation and plan further treatment if necessary.
If good oral hygiene and professional cleaning do not help, there may be other systemic diseases, such as throat infections or gastrointestinal issues. In such cases, it is advisable to contact a physician for further evaluation.
Here are some typical factors that can contribute to bad breath:
In some cases, bad breath can be a sign of oral diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. This inflammation of the gums is caused by an increased number of bacteria in the mouth, which can produce bad breath if not removed. The same applies to tartar and poor cleaning.
Cavities can also cause bad breath. They are often the result of inadequate cleaning combined with a diet high in sugar. Bacterial plaque on teeth produces acid from the sugars in food; if the bacteria are not removed, the acid can start to erode the enamel, leading to cavities. It is the bacteria that linger on the teeth over time that cause bad breath.
Smoking contributes to bad breath. Smoke often leaves a residue on the tongue, mucous membranes, and tooth surfaces. Tobacco can also lead to the expansion of gum pockets, which can develop into gum disease. This residue is full of bacteria and is a contributor to bad breath if not removed. You can prevent this residue by maintaining good brushing habits and using a tongue scraper. If a grayish-black residue forms on the teeth that cannot be brushed away, you may need to schedule a dental cleaning.
Saliva is essential for preventing diseases in the mouth. It neutralizes acids and cleanses the oral cavity, inhibiting the growth of bacteria and fungi. Reduced saliva production can be a side effect of various medications, medical conditions, or insufficient water intake. Over time, dry mouth can lead to bad breath.
Certain types of foods can also cause bad breath. This typically includes onions, dairy products, fatty foods, alcohol, and coffee. The breakdown of food that gets stuck in the teeth can cause odor.
Fasting or consuming very few carbohydrates can lead to bad breath. This is due to the breakdown of fat, which produces chemicals called ketones. These ketones have a strong aroma that contributes to bad breath.
Certain medications can reduce saliva production and worsen bad breath. Other medications can produce odors when broken down, releasing chemicals into the breath. Examples include nitrates used to treat angina, some chemotherapy drugs, and certain sedatives. People taking large doses of vitamin supplements may also be at risk for bad breath.
Acid reflux can occur due to fatty foods and alcohol. This involves stomach acid rising into the esophagus. Bacteria from this can linger on the tongue, leading to bad breath if not removed. They also create an acidic environment in the mouth, potentially causing acid damage to the teeth. Some cancers, liver failure, and other metabolic diseases can cause bad breath due to the specific combination of chemicals they produce.
Make sure to brush at least twice a day, preferably after each meal.
Flossing reduces the buildup of bacterial plaque between teeth. Brushing only cleans about 60% of the surface of a tooth.
Bacteria, food, and dead cells often build up on the tongue, especially in smokers or those with particularly dry mouths. A tongue scraper can be very useful.
The toothbrush comes into contact with a large number of bacteria, both from the oral environment and the surrounding environment. It is therefore recommended to change your toothbrush approximately every three months.
Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and tobacco, both of which dehydrate the mouth. Chewing gum or sugar-free mints containing xylitol can help stimulate saliva production. If the mouth is chronically dry, a doctor may prescribe medications to stimulate saliva flow.
Removal of tartar and a professional cleaning can help eliminate your bad breath. You can also schedule a consultation with us to check for cavities or gum disease, which are also signs of bad breath.
