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Embarrased By Bad Breath?
Some tips to help prevent bad breath include:
- Scrape the bacteria on the back of the tongue
- Practice good oral hygiene
- Brush with fluoridated toothpaste and floss regularly
- Have teeth professionally cleaned on schedule
- Refrain from using tobacco products
- Stimulate saliva flow in the mouth
- Maintain a food log to identify foods that may cause bad breath, especially garlic and onions
Getting to the bottom of bad breath: Why It Happens
Everyone experiences bad breath at one time or another. However, sometimes halitosis will linger. If this is the case, identifying the cause is necessary, as it could indicate a condition that requires periodontal or other healthcare treatment. Drs. Tom and Mark McCawley can address and treat cases of chronic halitosis in Ft. Lauderdale, FL.
Periodontal Disease
Bacteria in the mouth will often cause a bad odor if not thoroughly removed. Neglecting to brush, floss, and clean the tongue after meals or at least twice daily can cause bacteria to accumulate and lead to gum disease, which is a serious infection resulting in bone and tooth loss without treatment.
Eating and Drinking
Certain foods carry odors that can linger on the breath long after they are consumed. Spices, cheese, fish, onions, garlic, and alcohol are common culprits that may resist the deodorizing powers of toothpaste, mints, or mouthwash until after the body has a chance to digest and metabolize them.
Smoking and chewing tobacco
Tobacco is harmful to your health, causes bad breath, and increases plaque, making it more difficult to prevent gum disease.
Health Problems
Diseases of the organs and lungs can cause halitosis. Diabetes, digestive upset, oral yeast, sinus infections and other problems, as well the medications used to treat them, may be causing halitosis. A consultation with your physician can help to diagnose halitosis caused by health problems.
Get rid of the bacteria
Brush your teeth at least twice a day, floss daily, and use a tongue cleaner to prevent a bacterial accumulation. Maintain regular dental cleanings and exams, as well. Drs. Tom and Mark McCawley can examine your teeth and gums to determine if your oral condition is contributing to bad breath and suggest an effective treatment.
stop using tobacco
Tobacco causes bad breath, and increases the risk of periodontal disease and oral cancer.
Pay attention to diet
Bad breath may simply be a consequence of eating certain foods on a regular basis. Start tracking the types of foods and beverages you are consuming and try to limit them to see if it makes a difference.
talk to your physician
An undiagnosed health problem or taking medications for a health problem may be causing foul smelling breath. Please consult with your medical doctor.
stay hydrated
Drinking fluids, especially water, can help keep the breath fresh.
