Are you worried that your breath stinks? You don’t have to! Bad breath or Halitosis, is a common issue that affects 25% of the population worldwide.
Bad Breath Is a Common Issue
The condition is a common social stigma. [1] However, it’s easy to combat this issue with a few tips you can follow. Check out this space for more details.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Research shows oral cavity is the main contributor towards bad breath in 85-90% of the cases.
The humid environment and temperature up to 37° C leads to growth of bacteria.
Check out the several factors can cause bad breath.
Intraoral Causes
Poor Oral Hygiene
Lack of brushing or flossing your teeth often can give rise to bacteria in your mouth. This can further add to plaque build-up.
If plaque isn’t brushed away, foul odor arises. This further contributes towards bad breath.
Periodontal Disease
Oral conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis can contribute to oral malodor. They can produce a distinct putrid smell.
Certain oral conditions can also cause extreme soiled odors.
Other intraoral causes include improper tongue cleaning, dry mouth, dental caries and food lodgement.
Source: MDPI [2]
Extraoral Causes
10-20% of bad breath causes are not oral in nature. They can be infections, respiratory tract infections, gastrointestinal diseases, and diabetes.
Medications
Certain medications like acetaminophen and antihistamines lead to a dry mouth. They can indirectly contribute to bad breath.
Diseases
Diseases such as gastrointestinal disorders, endocrinologic and metabolic disorders can be a cause of bad breath.
Other causes can also be consumption of alcohol or smoking.
Source: NCBI [3]
How To Get Rid of Bad Breath?
Maintaining a fresh and clean mouth is easy. To prevent or reduce bad breath, try these simple steps.
Good Oral Hygiene Keeps Bad Breath at Bay
Maintain Good Oral Hygiene
Brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day to prevent plaque build-up. [4]
Hydrate Yourself
It is a proven fact that dry mouth is a cause of bad breath. So, keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.
Moreover, production of saliva helps in keeping bacteria at bay, keeping your mouth clean and fresh. [5]
Consume Probiotics
Unbalanced intestinal flora can be a cause of bad breath. To rebalance, you can consume food rich in probiotics. [6]
Eat Fruits
Fruits like apples and oranges promote the production of saliva. [7]
Fruits for Fresh Breath
Rinse Your Mouth Post Meals
Food particles get stuck between your teeth easily while having any meal. Depending on the type of food you’ve had, it can be a probable cause of bad breath.
Therefore, a quick rinse after eating any meal is recommended. [8]
Quit Smoking
Smoking contributes to plaque build-up, gum diseases and bad breath. [9]
Kick the habit to maintain a good oral health overall.
See Your Dentist Regularly
Get regular dental check-ups & professional teeth cleaning done to maintain a good oral health. [10]
When To See Your Dentist?
If you notice that even after following basic guidelines your breath hasn’t improved, best to see a doctor.
Your dentist can detect any unusual signs, if there are any.
Looking for an affordable dentist who can get you a pleasant smelling mouth? We at Dentavacation can assure you a pocket-friendly service.
