Bad Breath – Causes, Prevention & Treatment

Bad Breath – Causes, Prevention & Treatment

Bad breath (aka “halitosis” in the medical world) is an annoyance at best and a potential sign of a serious condition at worst. There are many things that can cause bad breath, and several conditions that it may indicate. In this article, we are going to discuss bad breath and how it relates to your oral health. We will talk about some of the causes of bad breath, as well as some tips for prevention and treatment.

What Causes Bad Breath?

There are several potential factors that can lead to bad breath. Here are a few of the most common:

• Smoking
• Eating Foods with strong odors (onions, garlic, etc.)
• Dry mouth
• Gum disease

Bad Breath Prevention & Treatment

Perhaps the best way to prevent bad breath is to practice good oral hygiene. That means brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing once a day, and visiting your dentist for routine cleanings twice a year.

Beyond that, preventing and treating bad breath really depends on the underlying cause. If your bad breath is the result of your diet (consuming a particular food), or a lifestyle habit (smoking, for example), cutting down on those factors will likely help reduce the halitosis. If gum disease is the culprit, additional treatment may be required, and your dentist can help with that.

Smiles for Life Dental Clinic

At Smiles for Life Dental Clinic, we provide family and cosmetic dental care to patients throughout the Twin Cities. Dr. Brooks and his team of hygienists make it a point to treat each and every patient that walks through our doors with the respect that they deserve. Whether you need to schedule a routine cleaning, or you’re interested in learning more about invisible braces, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to set up your appointment at our Bloomington or Farmington dental offices.