Bad breath can be embarrassing and unpleasant. Some cases go away on their own, but chronic halitosis may require treatment or lifestyle changes. Unfortunately, this condition is often associated with a more serious problem. A dentist can help you identify and treat the underlying causes, but it's helpful to be familiar with them so that you can tackle them with your dental care team.

4 Common Reasons for Bad Breath

1. Food

When consumed on a daily or regular basis, certain foods can contribute to chronic bad breath. These include garlic, onions, and pungent cheese. These are usually fairly obvious, and the issue often dissipates after brushing and flossing in the evening. If bad breath continues longer than a day or two, it may be due to consistently eating smelly foods, or there could be another issue involved. 

2. Poor Dental Hygiene

Bacteria in the mouth are among the most frequent causes of chronic bad breath. The food you eat introduces sugar and starch, which build up around the gums and between teeth and feed oral bacteria. 

Excess bacteria contribute to plaque formation, which can play a role in consistent bad breath. Brush for a full two minutes twice a day and floss daily to keep them at bay. It's also essential to get your teeth professionally cleaned by a dentist twice a year to remove plaque that has hardened into tartar.

3. Dry Mouth

Saliva naturally washes away food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath. However, some people have naturally dry mouths, and others produce less saliva due to medication side effects or dehydration. In addition to drinking plenty of water during the day, you can discuss alternative medications or treatments with doctors to prevent this symptom. 

4. Infection or Illness

Occasionally, bad breath is caused by bacteria not directly related to dental hygiene. For example, a cut in the mouth may become infected, or a sinus infection may introduce bacteria into the throat that impacts breath. In these cases, treating the illness or infection with medication usually solves the problem. 

For a more specific treatment plan for your bad breath, contact S. Jill Spurlin, DMD in Enterprise, AL. The friendly, professional team provides a wide array of services to tailor treatment options to each patient’s individual needs. The family dentist has 28 years of experience, and the practice has access to the latest technology and treatment methods. Visit the website for a full list of options or call (334) 475-2624 for an appointment.