According to the Bad Breath Institute, anywhere from 35-45% of people suffer from bad breath. This can make people feel self-conscious about what others think and may cause them to avoid social situations whenever possible. Though it can be frustrating to deal with, knowing the causes of bad breath is an important first step in learning how to get rid of it so you can get back to feeling confident in yourself and your smile.
Causes of Bad Breath
Hydrogen sulfide is a chemical compound that’s stored in different parts of the mouth. It’s a known cause of bad breath and is characterized by a foul, unpleasant odor that smells like rotten eggs to most people. Along with hydrogen sulfide, some other common causes of bad breath include:
- Dry mouth which can be caused by certain lifestyle choices, medications, and health issues
- Some cancers, liver failure, and other metabolic diseases
- Foods and drinks such as onions, garlic, coffee, and some spices
- Smoking or using other tobacco products
- Mouth infections resulting from tooth decay, surgical wounds, mouth sores, or gum disease
- Plaque buildup
- Poor dental hygiene
- Some mouth, nose, and throat conditions
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath
Now that we’ve established some of the common causes of bad breath, what can you do to get rid of it? Brushing your teeth twice per day for two minutes and flossing once per day is a crucial part of good oral health that removes plaque and food debris. Brushing or scraping your tongue can also help remove residue that has built up between the taste buds. You should make a point of visiting the dentist on a regular basis as well so they can rule out any dental problems such as gum disease that could be causing bad breath.
There are also some foods and drinks that have been proven to be helpful in preventing bad breath. According to a study by the University of Illinois at Chicago, rinsing your mouth with green or black tea helps suppress the growth of bacteria that causes mouth odors. Researchers have also found that eating six ounces of yogurt on a daily basis can reduce the levels of odor-causing compounds in the mouth. Chewing on sugarless gum or eating carrots, apples, celery, or other crisp, fresh fruit and vegetables can also help stimulate saliva flow to wash away food debris and bacteria.
By practicing preventive care and following the suggestions above, you can cut down on the number of odor-causing compounds in your mouth. So, take your oral health into your own hands, and you’ll be enjoying fresher breath in no time.
About the Practice
Tylan Creek Family Dentistry has three convenient offices so that quality oral healthcare is never out of reach. They take patient care seriously and are here to help the whole family with anything from regular cleanings to orthodontics to finding a solution to bad breath. Your health and safety are always their top priority, so you can rest easy knowing your oral health is in good hands. To learn more about their services, visit Tylan Creek Family Dentistry’s website or call their Powdersville office at (864) 603-2200, their Greenwood office at (864) 407-4455, or their Simpsonville office at (864) 962-6671.