INSURANCE BENEFITS BEFORE THE END OF THE YEAR. IF YOU DON’T USE IT, YOU LOSE IT! Persistent bad breath – medically known as halitosis – doesn’t form from the food that you ate. What causes bad breath? There are several different factors that can contribute to halitosis. For example, dry mouth is often accompanied by an odor. But, on the other hand, it could also be a sign of something more serious – like a medical disorder or an oral infection. If you’re embarrassed to talk to people because of your breath, it’s definitely time to visit the dentist. They’ll be able to help you figure out the cause behind your halitosis, don’t worry!
Bad Breath: Understanding the Different Causes
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth – medically known as xerostomia – occurs when you don’t have enough saliva production around your mouth. Whether it’s a side effect from a new medication or dehydration, there are ways you can encourage more saliva production to combat your dry mouth. If this is the cause behind your halitosis, you may benefit from drinking more water or even chewing gum.
Oral Infection
Oral infections are caused by a buildup of harmful bacteria. Unfortunately, if you have bacteria like this around your mouth, it doesn’t stay in one place for very long. Fortunately, there are ways you can prevent oral infection as well as treat it!
Medical Disorder
Lastly, if your dentist examines your mouth and concludes that you’re healthy, they may refer you to your doctor. The reason is; halitosis can sometimes be caused by an underlying medical disorder like diabetes or a gastrointestinal complication.
Preventing Halitosis
Now that you know the common causes behind halitosis, you can prevent it! Keeping your mouth healthy and clean is the best way to avoid bad breath. With the proper dental care – at-home oral hygiene, dentist visits, and a healthy diet – you decrease your chances of having to deal with oral infections or excess bacteria.