Halitosis, or persistent bad breath, is not only embarrassing but can also indicate underlying health issues.
Do you dread the thought of someone leaning in close to you, only to recoil at the stench of your breath? Halitosis, or persistent bad breath, is not only embarrassing but can also indicate underlying health issues. One of the most common causes of bad breath is the buildup of germs and bacteria inside your mouth. These nasty culprits thrive in an unclean mouth, and when left unchecked, can lead to halitosis or bad breath.
But did you know that poor oral hygiene is not the only cause of bad breath? In fact, you might be surprised by some of the leading causes of bad breath out there. Let’s take a look.
Alcohol Consumption Can Lead to Bad Breath
Excessive drinking harms your internal organs, including your esophagus, which can contribute to bad breath. Alcohol also bypasses your digestive system and passes directly into your bloodstream, which in turn causes excessive retching and burping, leading to the reflux of acids and chemicals from inside your body that find their way to your mouth. This makes alcohol one of the leading sources of bad breath, and a particular problem in the U.S., and you may notice that folks who tend to be heavy drinkers often suffer from bad breath as well.
Skipping Breakfast Can Lead to Bad Breath
Saliva is a natural and vital fluid in our bodies that plays a crucial role in keeping our mouth, esophagus, and digestive tract healthy and clean. It’s like the engine oil for your car, but for your mouth and digestive system. It lubricates and helps break down food, making it easier to swallow and digest. When we sleep, our body’s saliva production slows down, and that’s why we often wake up with dry mouths.
Eating in the morning helps start the production of saliva again which in turn lets your digestive system do its thing. If you skip breakfast, you can prevent that process entirely which may lead other compounds to build up in your mouth and cause bad breath.
Poor Oral Hygiene
We know we said these would be surprising and it may not seem like a surprise that poor oral hygiene can cause bad breath, but it may be happening in ways you don’t realize. Eating can cause tiny particles of food to become stuck to or lodged into your teeth, slowly leading to bacteria building up and causing an unpleasant odor. If you find you have this problem despite brushing regularly, try brushing (or if you can’t brush, flossing) after every meal.
Catonsville Dental Care Is The Best Choice for Your Dental Health
Catonsville Dental Care offers a wide variety of services when it comes to oral health. We have the experience and understanding to diagnose and treat any problem you have as quickly and painlessly as possible. With four dentists available at our office and a commitment to comfort, safety, and relaxation, you can’t find a better provider for your health. We look forward to helping you keep your smile perfect all year long and talking with you about your needs. To schedule an appointment or consultation, visit us online or give us a call at 410-747-1115. For more tips and tricks, follow us on Facebook, Flickr, Twitter, and YouTube.