An estimated 1-in-4 people globally suffer from frequent bad breath. It may seem like a trivial problem, however, it can cause psychological distress as it leads to feelings of embarrassment and social anxiety. Luckily enough, most cases of persistent bad breath can be solved by a few simple changes to your lifestyle and dental care routine.
Persistent bad breath is medically referred to as Halitosis. Halitosis primarily occurs because of two reasons: poor dental care and poor overall health. Bad breath can be worsened still by your food choices and a lack of hydration.
If you eat something with a strong odour, such as garlic, the smell will not completely leave until the food has passed through your body. Unfortunately, even brushing and flossing will only somewhat mask the smell, not completely get rid of it.
Poor dental habits are also to blame for persistent bad breath. If you do not remain consistent with your teeth brushing and flossing, food particles can remain in your teeth over time and promote bacterial growth. Antibacterial rinses, such as mouthwash, can help combat this along with better and more consistent dental hygiene.
In some cases, bad breath can be a sign of underlying health issues. For instance, persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can be a symptom of gum disease. A person’s health is directly related to their overall lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise. It is important to consume the correct amount of nutrients and vitamins and drink plenty of water.
Finally, smoking or chewing tobacco leads to bad breath, among a slew of other dental and overall health issues. For instance, tobacco stains teeth and irritates your gums, sometimes leading to gum disease. Gum disease can cause bad breath and tobacco alone brings its own type of mouth odour.
Besides changes in lifestyle and dental care, one of the best options to help eradicate bad breath is to visit the dentist twice a year for check ups and cleanings. A dentist can help accurately pinpoint the causes of halitosis and can recommend antibacterial toothpastes and mouthwashes. Reach out to your family dentist to find out which solution is right for you.
