Bad breath is properly called halitosis. It can be caused by a number of different factors alone or any combination. The following is a list of common causes:
- Oral Diseases: Gingivitis/periodontal (Gum) Disease.
- Foods
- Smoking
- Dentures
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Respiratory Tract Infections
- Dry Mouth
What Can I Do to Prevent Bad Breath?
Bad breath can be reduced or prevented if you:
- Practice good oral hygiene. Brush twice a day with fluoridated toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Brush your teeth after you eat (keep a toothbrush at work or school to brush after lunch). Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. Use floss or an inter-dental cleaner to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth once a day. Dentures should be removed at night and cleaned thoroughly before being placed in your mouth the next morning.
- See your dentist regularly – at least twice a year. He or she will conduct an oral examination and professional teeth cleaning and will be able to detect and treat periodontal disease, dry mouth, or other problems that may be the cause of bad mouth odor.
- Stop smoking/chewing tobacco-based products. Ask your dentist for tips on tobacco cessation or for a referral.
- Drink lots of water. This will keep your mouth moist. Chewing gum (preferably sugarless) or sucking on candy (preferably sugarless) also stimulates the production of saliva, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.
- Keep a log of the foods you eat. If you think the foods that you eat may be causing you bad breath, record what you eat. Bring the log to you dentist to review. Similarly, make a list of the medications you take. Some medications may play a role in creating mouth odors.