What is the best way to deal with bad breath? Keep your teeth and mouth clean through brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and following up with mouthwash. And of course, having a regular oral cleaning routine will also help you avoid tooth decay and lower your risk of gum disease.
What if I Need Further Treatment for Bad Breath?
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is unhealthy and can be embarrassing. If you have bad breath, the foods you eat, certain health conditions, and your oral hygiene habits are likely the reasons. Temporary fixes like gum and mints will not help you solve the primary problem.
Ask your dentist for assistance if you are experiencing ongoing bad breath. If your bad breath is caused by issues in your mouth, your dentist will work with you to help you better control the problem. Further treatment for bad breath may include the following recommendations from your dentist:
- Toothpaste and Mouthwash. If your bad breath is due to a buildup of bacteria or plaque on your teeth, using an antibacterial toothpaste will help remove plaque buildup. Also, using a mouthwash after brushing and flossing will kill the bacteria that are likely causing your issue.
- Lifestyle Changes. Make changes to your regular habits, such as brushing your teeth and tongue each time after eating (your tongue can collect odor-causing bacteria), using dental floss, and drinking plenty of water to avoid having a dry mouth. Also, discontinue cigarette smoking and tobacco use.
- Professional Teeth Cleaning. In some cases, only professional cleaning at your dentist’s office will fully remove the harmful bacteria from your teeth. Your dentist may also suggest you replace old or faulty fillings, which can lead to unwanted bacterial growth on your teeth.
- Treatment of Dental Disease. If your dentist determines you have gum disease, he or she will refer you to a gum specialist, known as a periodontist. Gum disease occurs when your gums begin to move away from your teeth, also known as recession. This leaves open pockets around your teeth that fill with odor-causing bacteria.
Additionally, if you wear dentures or have braces on your teeth, be sure you are thoroughly cleaning them to remove food particles and the bacteria that cause bad breath.
Sinus and respiratory infections, such as a cold, strep throat, or bronchitis, can lead to bad breath when bacteria move from your nose into your throat. Continual heartburn, which is a symptom of gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD, can lead to bad breath. Some cancers can cause breath odor.
If your dentist determines that a health condition other than a dental issue is causing your bad breath, he or she will suggest you see your primary healthcare provider.
What if I Have Tried Several Solutions and Still Have Bad Breath?
Bad breath can be caused by foods you eat, poor oral hygiene habits, health conditions, or even some medications. Typically, you can avoid bad breath by keeping your teeth and mouth clean. However, if you have tried to solve the problem yourself and still have not found a satisfactory outcome, see your dentist or your regular healthcare provider to rule out a more serious health condition.