Bad Breath
Having bad breath can be an embarrassing problem – especially if you are regularly face to face with other people. Known professionally as halitosis, bad breath...
By Dr. Boris Zusin · Published June 16, 2021
Having bad breath can be an embarrassing problem – especially if you are regularly face to face with other people. Known professionally as halitosis, bad breath plagues many people every day. Most cases of bad breath can be remedied by efficiently brushing the teeth. However, some types of bad breath are chronic or recurring, which may warrant a visit to the dentist.
Did you know…
that bad breath can be caused by something as simple as eating too much garlic, or that it could be a serious symptom of a disease? Some of the most common causes include dry mouth, certain medications, tobacco use, poor dental hygiene, and oral infections. In rare cases, bad breath may be a sign of diseases like cancer or gastroesophageal reflux.
Frequently Asked Questions
If your bad breath does not improve despite self-care techniques, such as dietary adjustments and thorough brushing, you may need to see a dentist about professional treatment. Short-term remedies like gum, breath mints, and mouthwash may temporarily freshen breath, but they don’t solve the underlying problem.
Your visit will begin with an examination and questions about your daily habits, such as the foods you eat and medications you take. Your dentist may inspect your mouth for signs of decay, infection, or gum disease. If your chronic bad breath can’t be traced to an oral problem or habit, you may be referred to a physician for further evaluation.
Yes. Keep breath fresheners on hand, sleep with your mouth closed to prevent dry mouth, eliminate odor-causing foods like garlic and onions, and brush your teeth and tongue every morning and night. Visit your dentist for professional cleanings at least twice a year to remove built-up plaque that can cause chronic halitosis.
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