Why Do I Have Bad Breath?
Are you suffering from bad breath? Feeling self-conscious about your breath smelling – whether it’s during the day or when you wake up? Worried there’s something causing it that could be of concern? Then don’t worry – we’re here to help. As a team of dentists based near Ripon, we help patients in and around the area treat their concerns and offer support, advice and treatments without judgment. Today, our dentists in Boroughbridge will share some answers to questions about bad breath, so you know what’s causing it and how to deal with it.
So, what causes bad breath?
Bad breath – also called halitosis – is caused by a build-up of bacteria in the mouth. Bad breath can develop due to poor oral care; certain illnesses and medications; a lack of saliva; and even the foods and drinks you consume. In more detail:
- Diet: strong-smelling, strong-tasting foods like onions and garlic can be a temporary cause
- Brushing and flossing: not targeting teeth properly? Bacteria and food can build up over time
- Gum problems: food can also get stuck in the pockets of the gums
- Dry mouth: saliva helps neutralise acids and bacteria in our mouths
- Tongue bacteria: these collect here too, so scrape your tongue as part of your routine
- Morning breath: bacteria thrive while you sleep, especially if you sleep with your mouth open
When should I be worried about bad breath?
If making changes to some of the above factors doesn’t help your bad breath, it could be time to seek professional care. As well as deep and thorough cleaning of your mouth, our dentists in Boroughbridge will be able to tell if there’s any sign of decay or infection that could be making the problem worse.
How do I treat bad breath?
Halitosis can be treated by limiting sugary foods in your diet; investing in a good-standard oral routine where you brush and floss twice a day; using mouthwash throughout the day, and keeping hydrated. You should also have regular dental check-ups at our Dental Practice in Boroughbridge to keep on top of your smile.
How do I prevent bad breath?
You can prevent bad breath by following some of the steps we’ve outlined above, or more specifically:
- Watching what you eat and drink
- Having a good oral care routine
- Drinking plenty of water
- Cutting back or quitting smoking
- Chewing sugar-free gum
Book with our dental practice today
Our specialists in Ripon can help you keep on top of your oral health – whether you’re concerned about halitosis or something else. To get in touch with our team in Boroughbridge, visit our contact page and fill out the form or drop us a call or email.