Most people are unable to identify if they have bad breath since they are so accustomed to their own odours. Cupping your hands over your mouth and breathing out is often ineffective since bad breath is primarily produced when a person talks and, as a result, bad odors are forced out from the back of the mouth, where it is produced. The best way to go about this is to ask a loved one or close friend.
Ever experienced bad breath (or halitosis as it’s more formally known)? Bad breath can significantly affect self confidence and social relationships but most often, this issue can be resolved with a good oral hygiene routine and professional insight on the underlying cause. Mints and mouthwashes are temporary solutions so, if you’re experiencing this and would like some help, an appointment with one of our dentists will help you learn the steps you need to take to be on your way to fresher breath.
The possible reasons for bad breath are numerous. Primarily, this could occur due to the breakdown and accumulation of food particles around your teeth. If you don’t brush or floss regularly, the particles left in your mouth form plaque. These odorous bacteria can even cause gum disease if not addressed. Eliminating gum disease is a key aspect of keeping bad breath at bay.
Eating different types of foods can be another source of bad breath. While onions and garlic are well-known culprits, other vegetables and spices can also be at play here. They work similarly to how alcohol does. Even though consumed, pungent oils are carried to the blood stream, and then carried to the lungs, from where it’s expelled in each breath.
There are certain medical conditions such as infections, dry mouth, diabetes and other issues affecting your mouth, nose and throat that can cause bad breath. Your initial consultation with our dentist will help assess the underlying cause and how to best treat it.
Conscious about your breath? We can help.
The key to fighting bad breath is a good oral hygiene routine. This includes brushing your teeth (and the surface of your tongue!) daily with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between your teeth with floss. If you wear a dental appliance such as dentures, removing them each night and placing them in denture-cleaning solution is essential.
Consume plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and to wash away any lingering bacteria. Scheduling regular checkups with your dentist also plays a vital role in maintaining good oral hygiene. We recommend an appointment every 6 months to have your teeth professionally cleaned and to intercept dental conditions such as gum disease as early as possible.
Our experienced dentists will be able to assess the underlying causes of your halitosis and recommend the best course of action. For cases of gum disease only a professional cleaning will be able to remove the deeply accumulated plaque. For severe cases of infection, more extensive treatment may be necessary. If our dentist believes your case of halitosis is not caused by a dental issue, but a health condition, a doctor will be recommended.
At Purity Dental we’ve been helping our patients achieve their dream smile and optimal dental health for years. If bad breath is holding you back, simply call our team and we’ll work with you to find the best course of treatment available.
Conscious about your breath? We can help.
