Bad Breath Guide: Causes, Treatments and Prevention

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is often produced by the build-up of bacteria in the mouth which produces an unpleasant smell. It can be caused by many lifestyle factors or diseases and identifying the cause is essential to treat the condition.

Most of us experience temporary bad breath at some point in our lives which can make us feel embarrassed when we are near others. Chronic bad breath, however, is a serious issue and can be an indicator of a severe oral care issue.

Keep on reading to learn more about the causes of bad breath, its treatment and prevention.

Causes

To identify the source of bad breath, you should schedule a dentist appointment. To diagnose the cause, the dentist will smell your breath and ask you questions about your health and hygiene habits, like the frequency of brushing and flossing, any allergies you may have or any medications you take.

Common causes include:

• 
  Infrequent brushing or flossing
• Tongue bacteria
• Morning breath
• Tooth decay
• Diet
• Smoking
• Gum problems e.g. periodontal disease
• Underlying medical condition

Treatment

The treatment of bad breath depends on what is causing the issue. Once the dentist has identified the specific cause of the bad breath, they will be able to recommend the required dental treatment or oral hygiene practices to resolve the problem.

If plaque build-up or periodontal disease is the cause, the dentist will recommend booking hygienist appointments for a dental cleaning treatment to eliminate plaque. 

Preventing Bad Breath

Teeth Brushing

Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove plaque and break down acids that can cause decay.

Flossing

Use floss and interdental brushes after brushing to remove food, debris and plaque between the teeth.

Tongue Scraping

Use a tongue scraper after brushing and flossing to remove the bacteria and dead cells that build up on the tongue. 

Staying Hydrated

Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day to prevent a lack of saliva causing bacteria to grow. The amount of water needed will depend on your size and activity level.

Replacing Your Toothbrush

Replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months or sooner if you have been sick or your toothbrush is stored close to other toothbrushes.

Dental Checkups and Hygienist Appointments

Dental checkups are recommended yearly to examine oral health and identify any diseases or health issues before they become severe. Likewise, visiting the oral hygienist twice a year helps to maintain good oral hygiene. During a hygienist appointment, the practitioner will not only perform scaling and dental cleaning treatments but also advise you on how best to maintain your oral hygiene at home.

Find out more about dental treatments and dental hygiene.

Acorn Dental Health

If you’re struggling with bad breath and aren’t sure what the cause is, why not book a dental checkup?

During a consultation with one of our dentists, they will diagnose the cause of the bad breath and create a treatment plan to target the source of the bad breath.

If you have any queries or would like to book an appointment with one of our dental professionals, get in touch today!