Bad breath. It’s one of those things no one really wants to talk about, but most people have dealt with it at some point.
In fact, Harvard Health Publishing reports that about 30% of the population complains of some sort of bad breath. Whether it’s first thing in the morning or after a garlicky lunch, mouth odor happens, and it’s often normal!
However, long-term bad breath isn’t so normal. If you’re noticing breath that lingers no matter how often you brush or pop a mint, it might be a sign of something more serious going on.
Let’s break down bad breath causes, and more importantly, what can be done about them.
What Causes Bad Breath?
The medical term for bad breath is halitosis, and while temporary breath odor is common, chronic bad breath usually means there’s an underlying cause. Not only is that concerning for your oral health, but it can also impact your quality of life.
As WebMD shares, bad breath can be embarrassing and tough on those around. In some cases, it may even put a strain on your relationships or confidence.
Fortunately, if you can get to the root of your problem, you can likely put an end to your halitosis. Some of the most common causes of bad breath include:
1. Poor Oral Hygiene
When good tooth brushing and flossing aren’t part of your daily routine, food particles stick around, and bacteria love to feed on those. Neglecting your oral hygiene can create a sticky film called plaque that builds up on your teeth, tongue, and gum tissue, leading to that foul odor nobody wants.
Even if you do take proper care of your oral health at home, make sure you’re scheduling a checkup with a general dentist at least once (if not twice) per year. They’ll look for signs of gum disease and other problems that you might not notice on your own. Plus, they’ll give you that next-level cleaning that contributes to great breath.
2. Dry Mouth
Saliva production plays a big role in keeping your mouth clean. It helps wash away debris and neutralize bacteria.
If you’re not making enough saliva, bad breath can become more noticeable. This can happen if you’re breathing through your mouth, taking certain medications, or dealing with health conditions that reduce moisture and cause a dry mouth.
3. Gum Disease
When plaque hardens into tartar, it irritates the gums, and that’s when gum disease can start. As bacteria build up below the gumline, they give off strong odors that are hard to brush away on your own.
Think gum disease is a rarity? Think again. According to the Cleveland Clinic, almost half of all adults in the United States have some form of gum disease, which means you might be at more risk than you realize.
4. Certain Foods and Drinks
You’ve probably noticed it after drinking coffee or eating onions. Certain foods are just naturally stronger-smelling, and they don’t leave your breath fresh. The odors can stick around until your body fully processes the food.
5. Postnasal Drip and Tonsil Stones
Mucus from postnasal drip can collect at the back of your throat, trapping bacteria. And tonsil stones—small, calcified particles in the crevices of the tonsils—are known for causing strong mouth odor.
6. Medical Conditions
In some cases, bad breath is linked to something outside the mouth. Conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease, uncontrolled diabetes (which can cause a fruity odor), or infections can also be at the root of the problem.
7. Tonsil Stones
Tonsil stones are small, hard deposits that form in the crevices of your tonsils when food particles, mucus, and bacteria build up. Over time, they can produce a strong, foul odor as the trapped debris breaks down.
Because they’re often hidden deep in the throat, you may not even realize they’re there, just that your breath smells unpleasant, no matter how often you brush.
How to Treat Halitosis: Bad Breath Solutions
The good news? Halitosis can usually be treated, especially when we know what’s behind it.
Here are a few ways to keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy:
- Brush and floss twice a day to remove plaque and food particles.
- Use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue, which is a hotspot for odor causing bacteria.
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production and keep your mouth moist.
- Try an alcohol free antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce odor-causing bacteria in the mouth.
- Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated and rinse away debris.
- Eat more healthy foods like crunchy fruits and vegetables that naturally clean your teeth.
- Talk to your primary care physician or healthcare provider if you suspect a medical condition is involved.
Additionally, if you wear dentures, braces, or any appliance in your mouth, keeping them clean is just as important. Anything left uncleaned can trap particles and lead to odor.
When to Talk to Your Dentist
If bad breath is becoming a regular issue, let’s talk. We’ll take a close look at your oral health, check for gum disease or other oral health issues, and help pinpoint the underlying cause.
Whether it’s as simple as optimizing your oral hygiene routine or something that needs medical follow-up, we’re here to help.
At Hickory Dental, we know it can be uncomfortable to bring up, but you’re not alone, and there are real bad breath solutions. Let’s figure it out together.
Ready to schedule a check-up at our North Carolina office? We’re always happy to help you breathe a little easier.