Having bad breath can negatively affect your social life, intimate relationships and self-esteem. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to fend off bad breath. Determining the cause of your bad breath can help reduce the risk and control it. Treating bad breath will lead to fresher breath, less embarrassment and improved relationships.
Bad breath, also referred to as halitosis, is a common and treatable condition for many people. It can be caused by certain foods and prescription medications. This condition can also signify a serious medical problem or deeper oral health issue. Here are some of the causes of bad breath and the recommended treatment options.
If self-care techniques do not solve the problem, a person should contact a dentist to make sure that a serious condition is not causing bad breath. A thorough health history may help in determining whether the cause of bad breath is localized to the mouth or if it is due to a systemic problem, in which case a physician should be consulted. If bad breath problems are because of an oral issue, a dentist can work with a patient to develop a treatment plan that will minimize odor. This will help deal with the problem.
Treatment may involve scraping the plaque off the tongue or using an antibacterial mouth rinse. Sometimes both treatment options may be suggested. A dentist can also tell if breath odors are caused by problems with the gums and teeth. If any problems are found with the teeth and gums, the dentist will begin treatment.
A person should keep a log of any foods being consumed. If a person thinks they may be causing bad breath, the log should be taken to a dentist for review. After eating particular foods such as garlic, onions, spices and certain vegetables, odor-causing food particles enter the bloodstream. They are then carried to the lungs, where these particles affect the odor of the breath each time a person exhales. Coffee can cause bad breath because of its intense flavor and the effect it has on the production of saliva. Diets high in protein and sugar can also result in bad breath.
Making a list of the medications being taken is also recommended. Some drugs usually play a role in creating mouth odors. Many prescription medications contribute to dry mouth. When someone’s mouth is dry, when the production of saliva decreases, the environment for odor-causing bacteria thrives. An extended period of time with dry mouth often causes discomfort and leads to bad breath. Sometimes, when some medications are broken down in the body, they release chemicals that are carried through the bloodstream to the breath.
Finding the main cause of your bad breath can help you control it. If you are worried about your breath, you should avoid particular foods. A visit to your dentist may help rule out gum disease and identify any mouth problems that may be causing bad breath. If the condition is a symptom of another disorder, treating the root cause will help reduce and cure your bad breath.
Request an appointment here: https://www.smilesinpa.com or call Jenny Chen Pediatric and Family Dentistry at (610) 400-1588 for an appointment in our West Grove office.
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