Introduction
Most people like things to smell nice. Foods, perfumes, and essential oils cater to our senses, making our environment that much better. Among other things, our breath is no exception. When bad breath occurs, it may seem like an unpleasant visitor at the time. However, it could be a much more frequent tenant than first thought.
A study conducted by dental professionals sampled a group of university students regarding their perception of bad breath. The results were shocking. While only about twenty percent reported having bad breath themselves, a staggering near-eighty percent mentioned noticing it among others within the same group. The thought of having frequent bad breath without noticing is uncomfortable in and of itself and could be enough incentive to encourage stronger dental hygiene. Unfortunately, that just may not be enough to get rid of this particular miasma. Halitosis, otherwise known as bad breath, has continually plagued our mouths, but what really causes it?
From gum infections to coffee, there are numerous potential causes of bad breath, with some that you may not be expecting. In this post, we’ll discuss a few of the most common sources, how to identify them, and finally, some ways to manage them.
Cause #1: Poor Hygiene
Let’s start with the most obvious one: poor hygiene. Growing up, most are told to brush their teeth to prevent cavities. In reality, however, taking care of our teeth and gums does much more than keep our pearly whites… well… white.
Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria present on the tongue, teeth, and gums. These bacteria break down food particles and produce sulfur compounds that cause unpleasant odors. If left unchecked, plaque and other debris can build up, causing not only unpleasant odors but also harm to gum and tooth health. The best way to avoid this is, of course, to take dental care seriously. Brushing twice a day, flossing daily, and using an antibacterial mouthwash are all steps toward improving your oral health and freshening up your breath. Make sure to use fluoride toothpaste as well, to get that extra cleanliness.
It’s also important to note that technique matters. Brushing should be done for at least two minutes, covering all surfaces of the teeth, and flossing should be thorough to remove particles stuck between teeth. Additionally, using a tongue scraper can help remove bacteria from the tongue, which is a common source of bad breath.
Cause #2: Diet
While cleaning our mouths is important to keep our breath fresh, the things we ingest can be just as critical. Coffee breath is something most have experienced, but that lingering odor isn’t exclusive to everyone’s favorite morning drink. Garlic, onions, alcohol, and even broccoli contain compounds that leave a lasting presence. It would be a lot to ask to remove every food and beverage that causes bad breath from someone’s palate, but it’s good to keep in mind.
With knowledge of more pungent foods and beverages, it’s easier to consume them in moderation. For instance, eating a diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables can help cleanse the palate and promote fresher breath. Apples, carrots, and celery are particularly good at scrubbing teeth clean as you eat. On the other hand, sugary foods and drinks can promote bacterial growth and lead to more bad breath.
Cause #3: Smoking and Tobacco
The next culprit is a substance already criminally known for its negative effects: tobacco. Tobacco products can actually reduce the bacterial lining within your mouth! It can kill the body’s gum and cheek cells, reducing the immune system’s ability to regulate microbial growth. This can lead to an increased risk of infection, cavities, and, of course, foul breath.
Smoking can even cause lung infections and cancer, which could lead to more putrid odors as well. Over forty percent of frequent smokers develop chronic bronchitis. This is a lung disease characterized by, among other things, bad breath. Additionally, smoking can impair your sense of taste and smell, making it harder to detect when you have bad breath. All in all, those looking to stay minty fresh should probably stay away from tobacco.
Cause #4: Various Medical Conditions
The final offenders are things that are a bit broader than purely oral issues: several medical conditions. Periodontal disease, sinus infections, and gastrointestinal issues could all be at fault in regard to foul breath. Our sinus and stomach cavities are all connected, and as such, work in synchrony. While this is an incredible thing, it also means that problems can be interconnected as well.
Imbalances within the gut biome and sinus infections can sometimes have similar symptoms. One of the most prevalent ones is, you guessed it, halitosis. Other conditions such as diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and respiratory tract infections can also cause bad breath. For example, ketoacidosis can produce a odor in the breath. Most of the time, the breath fades with the source of the problem. However, since the root of the issue may delve deeper than simple brushing or diet changes, it could be a bit more persistent. In cases such as these, the best solution would be to visit your dentist. They have the ability to directly test for different bacteria present within your breath and identify the root cause.
Conclusion
From coffee to bronchitis, bad breath can appear in a myriad of different ways. For most, regularly brushing and flossing, ingesting pungent foods and beverages in moderation, and steering clear of any harmful substances should help stave off bad breath. Of course, routine dental visits are critical as well.
The good news is that you’ll probably never have to resort to an oral elixir (unless it’s Listerine)! Maintaining good oral hygiene, being mindful of your diet, avoiding tobacco, and seeking medical advice when needed can all contribute to fresher breath and better overall health. Fresh breath is not only a sign of good oral hygiene but also a reflection of your overall well-being. So, take the steps necessary to keep your breath fresh and enjoy the confidence that comes with it.
Maryville Family Dental is your home for tips on how to have fresh breath and a great smile. Schedule an appointment today!
