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There are various causes of bad breath, also known as Halitosis. Some of the major causes are given below.

Poor Oral Hygiene

Your poor oral hygiene habits could be the cause of your bad breath. Not brushing and flossing regularly allows plaque to build up on your teeth, which releases odors that other people may notice. Plaque contains millions of bacteria, so it’s also possible that the odor is caused by an infection in your mouth.

It’s important to make time for basic dental hygiene tasks every day. Brushing and flossing removes food particles from your mouth and prevents them from decaying into acid. This increases the likelihood your gums will be inflamed or infected. Additionally, keeping your mouth clean helps reduce the risk of gum disease, which is also associated with bad breath.

Gum Disease

Bad breath due to gum disease is caused by bacteria buildup in the mouth, which breaks down proteins and causes a foul odor. When plaque and tartar build up on the teeth, they can cause gingivitis – the first stage of gum disease. If the condition is allowed to progress, periodontitis can occur. This condition can be serious and lead to gum recession and tooth loss if not treated immediately by a dentist. The risk of periodontal disease increases with age.

Causes of Gum Disease

● Genetics – Some people are predisposed to develop gum disease due to genetic factors.

● Hormonal Changes – Hormonal changes in women during pregnancy or menopause can increase the risk of gum disease.

● Poor Oral Hygiene – Not brushing your teeth regularly or using poor technique can cause plaque to build up along the gum line and cause gingivitis.

● Smoking – Tobacco use of any kind increases your risk for gum disease.

Cavities

Having a cavity is the most common cause of bad breath. Bacteria can grow on the tooth’s surface, and although you can’t see it, it can make your breath smell bad. Of course, it also hurts and creates an unsightly appearance as well. If left untreated, cavities can cause teeth to fall out.

Getting a filling can treat and prevent further decay in the affected area of the tooth. If you have a cavity, it’s best to get it filled before it gets any worse. Fillings can also help with chewing and biting of foods. Cavities are preventable with proper oral hygiene, including brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and using mouthwash. Visiting your dentist regularly can also help prevent cavities and other oral health issues.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications, medical conditions or the natural aging process. This can cause the salivary glands to dry up and slow down the production of saliva. A lack of saliva in the mouth is a prime breeding ground for bacteria buildup because that saliva is the body’s natural defense against decay-causing acids. The effects of dry mouth are:

- Bacteria are more likely to build up on teeth, causing tooth decay and periodontal disease.

- Saliva is responsible for neutralizing acids that can damage enamel. Without it, these acids can attack teeth and cause erosion.

To minimize your chance of developing dry mouth, try drinking more water, chewing sugar-free gum and avoiding sugary drinks and alcohol. If your dentist notices you’re experiencing dry mouth symptoms during your regular checkups, they can advise you about avoiding common triggers.

Schedule your appointment with Legacy Dental Clinic today! Located at 4224 Gateway Blvd NW Edmonton, AB. Call us at (825) 467-8888.