The Truth Behind Bad Breath

What is Halitosis?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a significant source of embarrassment and social anxiety. While there are various reasons for bad breath, poor dental hygiene is one of the most common culprits. In this blog, we will discuss how dental hygiene can affect bad breath and what you can do to maintain fresh breath.

Factors of Bad Breath

First and foremost, poor dental hygiene can lead to the buildup of bacteria in your mouth, which can cause bad breath. When you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles and bacteria can accumulate in your mouth, causing a foul odor. Brushing and flossing regularly help remove food particles and bacteria from your teeth and gums, preventing the buildup of odor-causing bacteria.

Another significant factor is the accumulation of plaque on your teeth. Plaque is a sticky film of bacteria that can accumulate on your teeth and gums. If left untreated, plaque can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Therefore, it’s crucial to brush and floss regularly to remove plaque from your teeth and gums.

Dry mouth is also a significant contributor to bad breath. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria in your mouth, so when your mouth is dry, bacteria can thrive, causing bad breath. Certain medications, mouth breathing, and certain medical conditions can cause dry mouth. To combat dry mouth, you can try drinking plenty of water, using a mouthwash or chewing sugar-free gum.

Lastly, neglecting regular dental check-ups and cleanings can contribute to bad breath. A dental professional at Restore Dental can remove plaque and tartar buildup that regular brushing and flossing cannot. They can also identify any dental issues that may be contributing to bad breath, such as cavities, gum disease, or infections.

Treatment for Bad Breath

To address halitosis, the initial step is to schedule a cleaning and checkup with your Highlands Ranch dentist. At Restore Dental, our experienced team can conduct a comprehensive cleaning and examine your gums to detect any infected tissue that could be causing unpleasant odors. Dr. Chiu can also perform a dental exam to identify cavities or tooth infections that could be responsible for bad breath. In many cases, treating dental infections or decay can eliminate halitosis.

In the absence of a dental issue, our dentist may recommend oral hygiene options and suggest seeking advice from a primary care physician to rule out other possible causes. By seeking professional assistance, you can get to the root cause of your halitosis and take necessary steps to prevent it from impacting your daily life.

Scheudle an Appointment

Dental hygiene plays a crucial role in preventing bad breath. Brushing and flossing regularly, visiting your Restore Dental dentist regularly, and drinking plenty of water can help keep your breath fresh. If you are experiencing persistent bad breath, it’s crucial to consult with your Highlands Ranch dentist to identify the underlying cause and get appropriate treatment. Don’t let bad breath affect your confidence and social life; prioritize your dental hygiene today