Bad Breath

What is bad breath?

Bad breath also known as halitosis is when a person experiences bad breath. Bad breath usually consists of a dislikeable smell emitting from the mouth and can also translate to a bad taste in the mouth.

Bad breath is not necessarily a cause for concern however we recognise it can impact a person’s confidence and mental health. In some cases, bad breath can be a symptom of another condition within the mouth so it’s important to attend your regular dentist appointments.

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath is typically an indication of poor hygiene and can be resolved by routinely flossing and brushing the teeth.

• Smoking can cause bad breath; this is due to the chemicals in tobacco that have a foul odour when smoked.
• Food can cause the mouth to smell unpleasant, especially when particles are lodged between the teeth and not properly cleaned or removed causing the food to rot.
• Bad oral cleaning habits can cause bad breath.
• Infections of the mouth, throat or nose can all present symptoms of bad breath.
• Acid reflux can cause the breath to smell.
• A dry mouth. The lack of saliva prevents food particulates from being flushed from the crevasses in the mouth.
• Pregnancy can be linked to bad breath with the gums swelling and trapping food due to hormonal changes. Morning sickness can also contribute to bad breath, when excessively sick the smell can linger.

How to prevent bad breath?

Prevention is simple with bad breath; the main areas of focus are to ensure the mouth is cleaned properly twice a day. Start the process using tooth floss or a water flosser to dislodge any food that may be stuck. Then following by brushing the teeth for approximately two minutes or more. When spitting out your toothpaste, avoid rinsing and immediately use a mouthwash as this negates the toothpaste’s ability to help prior text and clean the enamel.

Avoid smoking. If you already smoke seek out quitting.

How to treat bad breath?

Bad breath can be treated in a few different ways, treatment is based on the cause of the bad breath. The first form of treatment is a deep cleaning of the teeth and gums which will remove the plaque and tartar buildup.

For bad breath stemming from faulty dental restoration then the dentist will likely need to replace it.

Teeth which have become impacted and are causing bad breath may be removed depending on the dentist’s assessment of the area. This is typically assessed through x-rays and examination of the mouth.

Brushing the teeth and flossing is an essential part of oral maintenance and is likely to reduce if not completely irradicate bad breath when there is no underlying condition.

Attending your six to twelve-month check-ins with your dentist, will ensure any issues are addressed and your oral health is maintained in line with your dentist’s guidance.

How to spot bad breath

The main symptom of bad breath is an unappealing smell coming from the mouth. Some may experience a bad taste in their mouth too.

If you are concerned about persistent bad breath, schedule an appointment and we’ll assist you in getting the proper treatment to inhibit the bad breath.