Causes and Prevention of Bad Breath
Improper oral hygiene is a primary cause of bad breath, also known as halitosis. Viktorija Misiūnaitė, an oral hygienist at Era Esthetic Dental clinic, explains that neglecting regular and thorough cleaning of teeth and tongue allows plaque to accumulate, leading to unpleasant odours.
Oral hygiene plays a crucial role in combating bad breath. Skilled oral hygienists can accurately identify the underlying causes and recommend effective preventive measures. Consulting a professional is highly recommended for persistent bad breath.
Beyond dental hygiene, various lifestyle factors can contribute to bad breath. Smoking, alcohol consumption, certain medications, diet, and low fluid intake can all play a role.
Coffee is often blamed for dry mouth, but it’s not the only culprit. Alcohol, smoking, and excessive caffeine consumption can all reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth and bad breath. Additionally, smokers are more likely to develop gum disease, another source of bad breath.
To combat these factors, it’s recommended to:
- Choose water over sugary drinks, coffee, and tea.
- Limit alcohol consumption.
- Opt for alcohol-free mouthwashes.
Smoking is strongly discouraged as it poses significant health risks and can exacerbate bad breath. Even the newer smokeless tobacco products carry potential health hazards.
Bad breath can also be a symptom of underlying oral health issues such as gingivitis, periodontitis, tooth decay, infections, and even oral cancers. Consulting an oral hygienist or dentist is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Furthermore, bad breath can be associated with systemic diseases like diabetes, digestive disorders, and infections of the nose and throat.
While temporary relief can be achieved with sugar-free chewing gum, lozenges, or mouthwashes with xylitol, the ultimate solution lies in maintaining good oral hygiene practices and addressing any underlying health conditions.