Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, can make someone self-conscious and uncomfortable. That is why there are various products available to eliminate the bad smell in the mouth. However, some of these products are only temporary treatments to fight bad breath and do not specifically address the cause of the problem.
Halitosis is something that mouthwash, mints, and frequent brushing of the teeth can’t solve. This is a problem that one cannot just simply ignore. If halitosis remains for an extended amount of time, then it may be a sign of something more serious.
Causes of Halitosis
Foods and beverages
The foods and drinks consumed can be a cause of bad breath or halitosis. Bacteria in the mouth can increase and can cause a foul odor when food particles breakdown in and around the teeth. After digesting the food, they enter the bloodstream and are carried into the lungs, which affects one’s breath. Some of the foods and drinks that may cause bad breath include: onions, garlic, alcohol, soda, spices, and more.
Dry mouth
Saliva plays a vital role in the mouth as it helps cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause an unpleasant odor. Dry mouth or sometimes known as xerostomia, can be a factor for having bad breath because there is not enough saliva to cleanse the mouth. Chronic dry mouth can be caused by a problem with the salivary glands or some other diseases.
Poor dental hygiene
Poor dental hygiene can contribute to halitosis because some food particles remain in the mouth resulting in the growth of bacteria. It is essential to brush the teeth and clean the gums and tongue every day to prevent the development of bad breath.
Smoking and tobacco
Tobacco products can cause an unpleasant odor in the mouth. Tobacco users and smokers are more vulnerable to develop gum disease, which can result in halitosis.
Other chronic conditions
Halitosis is often linked to specific problems in the mouth. However, bad breath can also be a sign of several conditions, such as gastric reflux, diabetes, kidney, or liver disease.
Infections in the mouth
Bad breath can be caused by wounds from oral surgery, or it can also be a result of tooth decay, gum disease, or mouth sores.
If you want to own a healthy and fresh breath, Dentistry of East Sacramento is here for you! Check out our Halitosis Treatment in Sacramento, CA. You can visit us at 1005 39th St., Sacramento, CA 95816.