There are a variety of products and methods you can use to treat bad breath. However, the best way to avoid halitosis is to address the underlying cause. If you're pestered by unpleasant breath, a dentist can help you diagnose and manage this condition. Here are some of the reasons you might be experiencing halitosis. 

What Causes Bad Breath?

1. Poor Oral Health 

Bad breath is frequently related to an improper oral care routine. Maintaining a healthy smile requires brushing and flossing your teeth twice per day, visiting the dentist at least twice per year, and quickly addressing tooth decay or gum problems. If you don't take these steps, you could end up with plaque or tartar buildup in your teeth. As food rots and clings to your teeth, you develop foul breath. 

2. Certain Foods & Drinks 

Some foods and drinks are known culprits of bad breath. These can include garlic, onion, and other fragrant and flavorful spices that are found in many common foods. Further, coffee, alcohol, and sugar can contribute to unpleasant breath since these foods have intense flavors, and eating them tends to decrease saliva production. Bacteria flourish in dry mouths, so it's important to remain hydrated. Chewing gum can also help freshen your breath while increasing the amount of saliva in your mouth.

3. Smoking 

Smoke from cigarettes and cigars seeps into everything, including the air you exhale from your mouth and nose. Many people who use tobacco products experience halitosis along with general oral health problems. In addition to affecting your breath, smoking weakens and discolors your teeth and can lead to gum disease. 

4. Medications 

Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a common side effect of many prescription and over-the-counter medications. Along with being extremely uncomfortable, a dry mouth can cause persistent smelly breath. Sip water, chew gum, and use a humidifier to add moisture to the air you're breathing. Xerostomia can also cause tooth decay, so be sure to visit a dentist if you notice any tooth discomfort. 

If you need dental care in Honolulu, HI, visit Stephen R. Ho, DDS. This Waikiki dentist has more than 25 years of experience in providing a range of services, from routine dental checkups to cosmetic surgery. He can help diagnose and treat halitosis in patients of all ages. Learn more about the services he offers online or schedule an appointment by calling (808) 949-4288.