Take a look at what may be causing your bad breath:
Food
The foods you consume play a daily role in bad breath. According to top mouthwash brand Listerine, garlic is the number one food that causes bad breath, followed by onions. This probably doesn’t surprise you! If you don’t consume these foods and you still suffer from bad breath, it can be the lack of flossing or brushing after you eat. Given that food is broken down as we chew, if we’re not careful to remove the excess food, it can transform into unhealthy buildup, otherwise known as tooth plaque.
Medical Issues
Does your mouth constantly feel dry? This is another common cause of bad breath. Medically known as Xerostomia, dry mouth occurs when there’s a lack of saliva. Your mouth needs saliva to clean itself and get rid of germs or acid buildup. Individuals who have trouble producing saliva are more likely to have bad breath. If you suffer from chronic dry mouth, there are a couple of things you can do. For one, staying hydrated throughout the day can help your mouth feel moist. You’ll also want to avoid drinking too much coffee, which can dehydrate you. The same goes for alcohol and tobacco products. If you can avoid them that would be best, but if not chew on sugarless gum after you’re done.
Poor Dental Hygiene
Brushing and flossing regularly will ultimately keep your mouth clean and free of bacteria. Otherwise, your tongue and teeth will trap bacteria causing you to develop greater issues like gingivitis and plaque. Poor dental hygiene also contributes to bad breath. So if you’re already brushing and flossing regularly, be sure to add mouthwash to the mix.
How to Prevent Bad Breath
In addition to good dental hygiene practices, be sure to visit your dentist at least twice a year and get frequent cleanings. This will help keep your teeth in their best condition and spot any signs of trouble before they get worse.
Here at Lee Trevino Dental, our team will ensure your concerns are addressed including bad breath. We’ll offer other suggestions you can do on a daily basis based on your situation. Connect with us today!
