Is Your Bad Breath a Sign of a Bigger Problem?

Everyone experiences bad breath (halitosis) occasionally, like after eating onion or garlic. Unfortunately, the foul odor can be an ongoing source of embarrassment for other people. In fact, as much as 45% of people have some level of halitosis. While you might attribute it to the foods you eat, it could be a symptom of an underlying problem, like poor oral hygiene or a sinus infection. Your dentist in Waterbury will pinpoint the cause to stop the odor in its tracks.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Reoccurring bad breath can be the result of several issues, but the most common cause is poor oral hygiene habits. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth correctly, it creates an accumulation of plaque and tartar, which harbor odor-causing bacteria. Smelly food particles can remain trapped between your teeth or on the tongue, leading to the unpleasant odor. If you suffer from dry mouth, it can make the problem worse because your saliva helps keep bacteria at bay.

Besides poor oral hygiene, bad breath can also be caused by an untreated dental issue, like tooth decay or infection. Treating the underlying problem can stop the smell. In some cases, halitosis can be the result of other factors, such as:

• Sinus infection
• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Postnasal drip
• Salivary gland dysfunction
• Certain medical disorders

How is Bad Breath Treated?

You don’t need to be embarrassed by the unpleasant odor. With poor oral hygiene the most common cause of the problem, you can take the first step toward fresh breath by committing to your smile at home using the best brushing and flossing techniques.

Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and nonabrasive toothpaste to clean your teeth twice a day. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle and use circular motions to clean all surfaces of your teeth for at least two minutes. Don’t forget to brush your tongue where bacteria can linger.

Besides brushing your teeth, don’t forget to floss every night before going to bed. Use a dental floss that’s supported by the American Dental Association. Insert the floss between two teeth and form a C-shape around a tooth. Gently slide it to the gum line and back up again. Repeat the process for every tooth.

It’s also best to schedule an appointment with your dentist for a cleaning and checkup. They will remove odor-causing buildup while finding the cause of your problem to create a customized treatment plan.

Stop Hiding Behind Bad Breath

You don’t need to feel insecure about your bad breath. With the right changes at home and the help of your dentist, you can smile and speak without worrying about an unpleasant odor.

About Waterbury Smiles

Dr. Marini and Dr. Mancini are committed to helping our patients achieve confident smiles. We offer personalized solutions catering to your specific needs through a focus on prevention. We provide comprehensive cleanings and checkups to keep your teeth and gums healthy. If you’re suffering from bad breath, we can help. Contact our office today for an appointment.