When it comes to oral health, there are many triggers that can adversely affect the way your mouth reacts. One of these conditions is halitosis, which is more commonly referred to as chronic bad breath. This condition means the use of breath mints, mouthwash, and good brushing do not even help get the stink out of your mouth.
The bad breath from halitosis remains for an extended period and is a huge trigger for something else that may be going on in your body.
How does this happen? Where does it come from? And, how can it be solved?
Halitosis points to another condition happening in your mouth or your body.
First, we need saliva to help keep our mouths clean and to continually be washing out bad bacteria. When your mouth is unable to do this, it can be a trigger for other conditions to occur, such as halitosis.
These are some of the most common conditions that have been linked to the onset of halitosis.
Dental Issues
Halitosis has been known to be associated with cavities and deeper pockets from gum disease.
Mouth, Nose, Throat Infections
Mouth, nose, and throat infections are another sign of halitosis. Sinus issues that lead to postnasal drip adversely affect your breath, which results in halitosis.
Smoking or Tobacco Use
Using tobacco or smoking is known to cause problems for both your body and your breath. These substances leave an odor on your breath and can dry out your mouth. Additionally, smokers are more likely to develop gum disease, which adds to halitosis.
Dry Mouth
Saliva is such an important part of fighting against bad breath. More importantly, it goes a long way for your dental health. When dry mouth settles in, halitosis does too. Dry mouth is caused by:
- Medications
- Medical conditions
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Excessive caffeine
Chronic Conditions
Sometimes our mouths tell us more than we think. When it comes to chronic bad breath, it can be a sign of further issues, including gastric reflux, diabetes, liver or kidney disease.
Caring for your mouth & halitosis
Halitosis can be taken care of and you can make good decisions for your body by taking your dental health into your hands.
- Brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time using fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth with floss once per day.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and keep saliva flowing.
- Chew sugarless gum.
- Cut back on your caffeine intake.
Create a plan of action! Your dentist can help you monitor and solve your chronic bad breath problems!
If you need help controlling your halitosis or finding out where your oral health issues are stemming from, then it is time to reach out to your dentist. Call us today at 877-478-1353. and speak with a dental health professional at The Complete Dentistry of Orland Park. Schedule your exam and begin caring for your mouth.
