Causes of Bad Breath
While bad breath is usually temporary and can be combated with a good brushing, flossing, and use of mouthwash, it can sometimes indicate a more serious problem. If you or a loved one suffers from chronic bad breath, known as halitosis, it may be a warning sign of other medical issues, such as sinus infections, diabetes, liver and kidney problems, or even lung or stomach diseases. In these cases, your dentist or primary care doctor can help you find a proper treatment and cure for your bad breath.구취원인
The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene, or not brushing and flossing regularly. Without these habits, food particles and bacteria build up on the teeth, and odor-causing sulfur compounds are released. Brushing and flossing twice a day and using an antiseptic mouthwash like LISTERINE can eliminate most cases of bad breath.
Certain foods and beverages can also contribute to halitosis. Garlic, onions, and fish, for example, can create an unpleasant smell in the mouth. Similarly, drinking coffee or alcohol can dehydrate the mouth and decrease saliva production, which also contributes to bad breath. Drinking plenty of water and chewing sugar-free gum after meals can encourage the flow of saliva, helping to flush out the mouth and reduce odor-causing bacteria.
Another cause of bad breath is dry mouth, or xerostomia. Saliva is needed to keep the mouth moist and neutralize acids produced by plaque. It also washes away dead cells that build up on the tongue, cheeks, and gums. Xerostomia can be caused by medications, dry mouth syndrome, or continuous breathing through the nose while asleep, and can result in morning breath that is often worse than usual.
A lack of saliva can also lead to a buildup of plaque on the teeth, which can create an overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria. Flossing and brushing the tongue can eliminate most cases of bad breath, as well as a regular schedule of professional cleanings at the dentist’s office.
In some cases, bad breath can be a symptom of more serious health problems. Diabetes, for example, can cause a fruity or sweet-smelling breath due to the presence of ketones in the blood. This is different from the more dangerous condition of diabetic ketoacidosis, which can cause a coma and is a life-threatening medical emergency.
If you have persistent bad breath, visit your Penn Dental Medicine dentist to find the source of the problem. He or she can perform an exam and check your mouth for signs of infection or disease, and can refer you to a doctor if necessary. Regular oral healthcare and healthy eating habits can prevent most cases of bad breath, so be sure to brush and floss regularly! And don’t forget to see your dentist for your routine cleanings and regular checkups.해우소한의원