Bad breath, sometimes referred to as halitosis, is caused by a buildup of odour-producing bacteria in the mouth. It affects approximately 25-30% of the population and can cause a lot of embarrassment and anxiety, however, most cases of bad breath can be cured with changes to your oral hygiene routine.

In this post, our dentists in Lancaster look at some of the causes of bad breath, as well as the best ways to manage it.

What causes bad breath?

• Food: As we eat, food gets stuck in our teeth and over time this produces odours. According to Medical News Today, some foods, such as onions and garlic, after they are digested are carried in the blood to the lungs where they can affect the breath.

• Smoking: Using tobacco products regularly can cause bad breath, and people who smoke are more likely to get gum disease, which can also cause halitosis.

• Lack of dental hygiene: Brushing and flossing regularly ensures that any food stuck in your teeth is removed before bacteria can build up and start producing odour.

• Diseases: Liver failure, certain types of cancer and other metabolic diseases can also cause bad breath. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause bad breath due to the reflux of stomach acids.

Treating halitosis

• Brush your teeth: It is recommended that you brush your teeth at least twice a day – and don’t forget to floss! Brushing alone doesn’t cover the whole tooth, and food particles and plaque can get stuck in between. Dental implants also need to be brushed and flossed regularly.

• Clean your dentures or retainers: Anything that goes in your mouths, such as removable dentures or Invisalign, should be cleaned regularly to avoid bacteria building up and being transferred into the mouth.

• Brush your tongue: As well as your teeth, food and bacteria can also build up on your tongue. Use a toothbrush or a tongue scraper to clean your tongue when you brush.

• Keep your mouth hydrated: Drink plenty of water and try to avoid food and drinks that dehydrate your mouths, such as alcohol or caffeine. If you suffer from a dry mouth, chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production, or a doctor can prescribe medication to help with this.

• Diet: Try to avoid foods such as onions and garlic, or brush your teeth thoroughly after eating. Sugary foods can also lead to tooth decay, which can be a cause of bad breath.

• Visit your dentist regularly: It’s recommended that you see a dentist at least twice a year. Not only can they check up on the overall health of your mouth, but they can help to treat gum disease and tooth decay, both of which can be causes of bad breath.

Next step

If you are dealing with halitosis or any other dental health concerns, get in touch with our team at Viva Dental in Lancaster via our contact page to book an appointment.