Halitosis, the medical term for bad breath, can be the result of many things including poor dental hygiene, but according to your dentist in East Greenbush, bad breath can become worse depending on what types of food you eat and the unhealthy lifestyle that you lead.
How Food Affects your Breath
Everything you eat gets broken down as you chew. If you are consuming highly odorous foods such as onions and garlic, brushing and flossing will not do the job. Your East Greenbush Dentist Dr. J Craig Alexander explains that even mouth rinses only mask the smell. The odor will stay with you for about 72 hours after you enjoy, as it needs to pass through your body.
Bad Habits and Halitosis
If you do not brush twice and floss once a day those food particles will remain stuck in-between your teeth and around your gums. Food particles will also stay on your tongue. Use an antibacterial mouthwash that will help reduce halitosis caused from bacteria and don’t forget to brush your tongue.
Tobacco use will cause bad breath and stain your teeth. Smoking and chewing tobacco can also affect your sense of taste and irritate the gums.
Health Problems and Bad Breath
Persistent halitosis along with a bad taste in your mouth could be a sign of gum disease. Gingivitis and periodontal disease is caused by plaque buildup causing bacteria to form creating a toxic environment for your teeth and gums. Plaque will irritate your gums and will develop into tartar. If left untreated gum disease can cause tooth loss.
Dental Appliances
Poorly fitting dentures or bridges can cause bad breath. Schedule regular appointments with your dentist to be sure that your dental appliances are fitting as they should. Your dentist may recommend other alternatives such as dental implants to get rid of bad breath once and for all.
Dry Mouth
If your mouth isn’t producing enough saliva, you are probably dealing with dry mouth. Certain medications, tobacco use and salivary gland problems could be to blame for your dry mouth. Talk to your doctor about switching your medication if you are dealing with dry mouth.
Many other illnesses and diseases, such as bronchitis, pneumonia, chronic acid reflux, postnasal drip, diabetes or liver and kidney problems could also be to blame.
If you have chronic halitosis, call or click and schedule a dental checkup with your East Greenbush dentist today.