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Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a very common condition. There are several possible causes of halitosis. Here are some of the most common ones.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Even if you brush and floss every day, you may have bad breath due to poor oral hygiene habits. This can occur when food particles are left behind on the teeth and tongue. The bacteria that feed on these particles produce odorous gases, which result in bad breath. This is also known as oral malodor. Practice better dental hygiene by brushing at least twice a day for two minutes each time, flossing daily, and using mouthwash in addition to your toothpaste. Along with improving your oral health, this will eliminate any causes of your bad breath.

Dry Mouth

Another reason you may experience bad breath is xerostomia or dry mouth. When you aren't producing enough saliva, the bacteria in your mouth flourish, resulting in foul-smelling breath. If you are already suffering from a dry mouth, consider drinking more water to keep your mouth moist throughout the day. Consider chewing sugar-free gum to stimulate the production of saliva as well. If you notice your bad breath is persistent despite trying the above solutions, make an appointment with your dental care professional as soon as possible. 

Cavities or Tooth Decay

One of the most common causes of bad breath is cavities. A cavity occurs when bacteria infect the enamel of a tooth and damages it. As the enamel breaks down, the bacteria can infect the inside of the tooth and cause pain and even infection. Once the decay reaches the inner layers of the tooth, it becomes more difficult to treat, and the effects can spread to the surrounding teeth as well. The damage can be exacerbated by eating sugary foods or too many starchy foods. Regular brushing and flossing can help reduce the occurrence of tooth decay and keep your mouth healthy. We recommend scheduling a checkup and cleaning every six months.

Gum Disease

Untreated tooth decay can cause gum disease, and gum infections can lead to bad breath. Other causes of oral odor include dry mouth due to medications like antidepressants or antihistamines, tobacco use, and drinks with high sugar content. Good oral hygiene is the best way to keep your mouth smelling fresh.

Make sure to brush your teeth two times per day for two minutes each time, floss at least once a day, and visit your dentist every six months for a professional cleaning and a checkup. If you experience chronic bad breath despite these at-home treatments, see your doctor to rule out an underlying condition.

At Dr. Stan's Exceptional Dentistry, we offer the best tips to keep your teeth healthy. Call us at (650) 328-1223 or schedule an appointment online with our Dentist in Palo Alto, CA, for the best dental care and experience.