Most people encounter bad breath, or halitosis, at some point in their lives, impacting about 25% of the global population. While poor oral hygiene is the primary cause, factors such as specific foods, dry mouth, and gum disease can also play a role. Furthermore, certain medical conditions—like some cancers, diabetes, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and liver or kidney disorders—can result in persistent bad breath.
Bad breath is more than just an occasional inconvenience; it’s a continuous unpleasant odor that may indicate underlying oral health issues or other medical concerns that require prompt attention. With over 90% of bad breath originating in the mouth, your dentist at Foothill Dental Care should be your first point of contact. Schedule an appointment with us today, and we’ll work together to find the right solution for you.
Strategies For Treating Bad Breath
The first step in tackling bad breath is identifying its underlying cause. Fortunately, once the cause is determined, there are several effective treatments available to help you achieve fresher breath, including:
- Improve Oral Hygiene Habits: To maintain good oral hygiene, brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day and floss daily. Be sure to clean your tongue as well, and consider using an antibacterial mouthwash to help reduce bacteria that cause bad breath.
- Dry Mouth: Dry mouth can worsen bad breath. To enhance saliva production, drink plenty of water and chew sugar-free gum. Also, limit alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco, which can contribute to dryness in your mouth.
- Avoid Tobacco Products: Smoking and chewing tobacco present serious health risks and are major contributors to bad breath. Research indicates that 80% of smokers experience bad breath.
- Watch Your Diet: Certain foods and beverages, such as garlic, onions, coffee, alcohol, and spicy or sugary items, can significantly contribute to bad breath.
- Visit Your Dentist On A Regular Basis: Maintaining good oral hygiene is vital for combating bad breath, and regular visits to your dentist at Foothill Dental Care are key to that effort. Depending on your oral health status, this may require just two or more appointments per year for cleanings and check-ups. These visits help keep your mouth healthy and catch potential issues early on.
Say Goodbye To Bad Breath: Discover Effective Treatments At Foothill Dental Care
Bad breath doesn’t have to be something you tolerate. If you think you might have bad breath, reach out to the team at Foothill Dental Care. We can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend effective treatment options. The great news is that bad breath is treatable! This may involve practicing good oral hygiene—like regular brushing, flossing, and dental cleanings—as well as making lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking.
At Foothill Dental Care in Livermore, we are dedicated to helping you overcome bad breath. After a comprehensive examination to identify the underlying cause, your dentist will develop a personalized treatment plan, ensuring your breath is fresh and inviting. If you’re in the Livermore area, give us a call at (925) 961-5484 or fill out our online contact form. Let us help you eliminate bad breath for good!
Sources: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17771-bad-breath-halitosis