Bad breath, which is medically known as halitosis, can be very embarrassing and be a downer on social outings. You may try to cover bad breath with mints, gum or mouthwash, but these are only temporary solutions. Address the cause of the problem with the help of Dr. Engelhardt, Dr. Beseda, and Dr. Nelson.
Tobacco Products
Smoking and using other tobacco products can cause an unpleasant, lingering odor in the mouth.
Food
When food particles break down around your teeth, bacteria can increase and cause an unpleasant odor. There are certain foods that are likely to cause bad breath, including onions, garlic and some spices. When these strong-smelling foods are digested, they enter the bloodstream and are carried to your lungs, where they affect your breath.
Dry Mouth
Saliva is the mouth’s natural cleaner. It removes particles and bacteria that can cause bad breath. In a condition known as dry mouth, the mouth does not produce enough saliva, which contributes to bad breath.
Poor Dental Hygiene
If you don’t brush and floss as well or as often as you should, the lingering food particles can cause bad breath. In addition, lingering plaque can irritate the gums and cause gum disease. Tooth decay and infection in the gums can both lead to bad breath. Also, if your tongue is not properly cleaned, odor-causing plaque and bacteria can become trapped in the uneven surface of the tongue.
Medications
Some medications cause dry mouth, which in turn contributes to bad breath.
For more information and to schedule your next visit with our dentistss in Fort Collins, Colorado, we invite you to contact Englehardt & Nelson Family Dentistry at 970-484-4890 today.