Do you brush twice a day, floss and use mouthwash? Does your breath still have an odour? Chronic bad breath, medically known as Halitosis, is a common occurrence that can be a nuisance to diagnose and be rid of. There are various reasons why you may have bad breath which can be easily identifiable, such as poor oral hygiene, obscure diets or smoking. On the other hand, many people practice good oral hygiene and still deal with this problem.
Reasons Why You May Have Chronic Bad Breath
Sinus Infections: Sinus infections occur when bacteria builds up in the nasal system. The infection does not allow for bacteria to drain properly leaving fungi and bacteria to thrive. These infections can last up to three months.
Dry Mouth: “We all need saliva to moisten and cleanse our mouths and digest food. Saliva also prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth.” Once you stop salivating, bacteria builds up in your mouth, creating noxious odours.
Stomach Conditions: Surprisingly enough, bad breath can occur from areas other than the mouth. Certain stomach issues such as ulcers and acid reflux can be a leading cause to bad breath. Ulcers are can be treated by antibiotics, while acid reflux may need a more long-term treatment. Acid reflux brings up acid through the esophagus, causing teeth erosion and bacteria in the throat.
Once diagnosed, it can be a simple fix to solve the bad breath odours. There are other solutions to prevent bad breath from occurring such as staying hydrated, avoiding coffee, alcohol, tobacco, and resisting sugary mints and gums. For a proper diagnosis, always be sure to communicate openly with your dentist and visit at least twice a year for a checkup. For your next appointment, contact Blackburn Shoppes Dental Centre, your helpful dentist!
