Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common but unpleasant problem that many face. There are many over-the-counter remedies for bad breath, but it is often just a momentary fix. Read on for more causes of bad breath and when to address the concerns you have with a dentist. 

What causes halitosis? 

1. Food and Beverages

Many foods and beverages can cause bad breath. The breakdown of food around the teeth can cause bacteria and odor, especially if the foods that are getting broken down are onions, garlic, and certain spices. Other culprits include cheese, pastrami, soda, fruit juices, and alcohol. Keep a food diary to see if certain foods affect you more than others. For better breath, avoid these foods and drink lots of water to aid in digestion. Eating more fruits and vegetables can help clear odor-causing bacteria as well. 

2. Poor Oral Hygiene Habits   

If you aren't brushing or flossing enough, bacteria will accumulate around the teeth, gums and tongue, causing a plaque buildup that leads to halitosis. Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss once a day, and brush or scrape your tongue. You may also want to invest in an antiseptic mouthwash.

Replace your toothbrush after an illness or at least every three months so that it isn't harboring additional germs. If you have dental devices such as mouthguards, nightguards, retainers, or dentures, make sure that they are fitting well and that you are cleaning them often. If you improve your oral hygiene habits and are still having problems, contact a dentist for advice. 

3. Other Medical Conditions 

Certain illnesses, such as chronic acid reflux, and metabolic disorders like diabetes produce a distinct breath odor because of the chemicals they produce in the body. Even sinus and allergy issues that result in a post-nasal drip can also be behind bad breath. Certain medications list bad breath as a side effect, especially those that can cause dry mouth. Saliva cleans your mouth by removing excess odor-causing bacteria. A decrease in saliva production can increase bad breath as well as tooth decay. If you are experiencing dry mouth, drink a lot of water to keep your mouth moist and speak to your doctor or dentist about next steps. 

If you are looking for a new family dentist, look no further than Harold R Arthur, D.M.D., P.A. Family Dentistry in Live Oak, FL. Dr. Arthur and his team specialize in both general and cosmetic dentistry for the whole family. Offering same-day appointments and customized care, they are sure to leave you smiling. For more information or to schedule an appointment, visit the website or call (386) 330-5181 today.