How to cure bad breath

Let’s be honest – having bad breath really is no fun.

It’s embarrassing, and it can make you feel isolated or self-conscious.

The good news is that the vast majority of cases are caused by the lack of proper oral hygiene, food stuck in your teeth, or dry mouth. This means that they are simple to cure with better oral hygiene.

Why do some people have chronic bad breath?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by a variety of factors. Some of the most common causes of bad breath include poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, certain foods and drinks, tobacco products, and certain medical conditions.

1. Poor oral hygiene: One of the most common causes of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. If you do not brush your teeth regularly and effectively, bacteria can build up in your mouth, leading to bad breath.
2. Dry mouth: Another common cause of bad breath is dry mouth, which occurs when there is not enough saliva in the mouth. Saliva helps to cleanse the mouth and remove bacteria, so a lack of saliva can lead to bad breath.
3. Certain foods and drinks: Certain foods and drinks, such as garlic, onions, and coffee, can cause bad breath. These foods and drinks contain compounds that are released into the mouth and can lead to bad breath.
4. Tobacco products: Using tobacco products, such as cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco, can cause bad breath. The smoke and other chemicals in tobacco products can cause bad breath and also contribute to other oral health problems.
5. Certain medical conditions: In some cases, bad breath can be a sign of a more serious medical condition, such as chronic sinus infections, respiratory tract infections, or liver and kidney problems. If you have bad breath that does not improve with good oral hygiene, it is important to talk to your doctor to determine the underlying cause.

How to cure bad breath at home

Here are some tips to help cure bad breath at home:

1. Brush and floss regularly: Proper oral hygiene is key to preventing and curing bad breath. Be sure to brush your teeth at least twice a day, using a toothpaste that contains fluoride, and floss daily to remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth.
2. Use a mouthwash: Mouthwash can help to kill bacteria and freshen your breath. Look for a mouthwash that contains antimicrobial agents, such as chlorhexidine or cetylpyridinium chloride, to help kill bacteria.
3. Drink plenty of water: Dry mouth can lead to bad breath, so it is important to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help keep your mouth moist and clean.
4. Avoid foods and drinks that cause bad breath: Certain foods and drinks, such as garlic, onions, and coffee, can cause bad breath. Avoiding these foods and drinks, or brushing your teeth after consuming them, can help to prevent bad breath.
5. Chew sugar-free gum: Chewing sugar-free gum can help to stimulate saliva production and freshen your breath. Look for gum that contains xylitol, a natural sweetener that has been shown to help prevent tooth decay and improve oral health.
6. Quit smoking: Smoking can cause bad breath and can also contribute to other oral health problems, such as gum disease and tooth decay. Quitting smoking can help to improve your breath and overall oral health.

How to cure bad breath with your dentist’s help

When you’re suffering from bad breath, it’s important to see a dentist. Regular dental checkups and cleanings are important for maintaining good oral health and preventing bad breath. Your dentist can help to identify and treat any underlying causes of bad breath and provide personalized recommendations for maintaining good oral hygiene.

Here are some ways in which your dentist can help to cure bad breath:

1. Perform a thorough dental exam: Your dentist will perform a thorough dental exam to check for any potential causes of bad breath, such as tooth decay, gum disease, or oral infections.
2. Clean your teeth and remove plaque and tartar: Your dentist or dental hygienist can clean your teeth and remove any plaque and tartar that has built up, which can contribute to bad breath.
3. Treat underlying dental conditions: If your dentist finds any underlying dental conditions, such as tooth decay or gum disease, they can provide appropriate treatment to help cure bad breath.
4. Provide oral hygiene instructions: Your dentist can provide personalized oral hygiene instructions to help you maintain good oral hygiene and prevent bad breath.
5. Prescribe medication: If necessary, your dentist may prescribe medication to help treat underlying conditions that are causing bad breath, such as infections or dry mouth.
6. Refer you to other specialists: If your dentist suspects that bad breath may be caused by a more serious medical condition, they may refer you to a specialist, such as an ear, nose, and throat doctor, for further evaluation and treatment.

Bad breath is a common issue that can be corrected

The good news is, bad breath can be treated in a number of ways, both at home and at the dentist. Home remedies include cleaning between teeth with floss or interdental brushes and using mouthwashes that contain alcohol-free chlorhexidine gluconate. Your dentist may also recommend professional treatments such as fluoride varnish applications or oral irrigations.

Conclusion

If you think you have bad breath and would like to cure it, the team at Marx Dental is here to help you find the best possible solution.