Bad breath—also known as halitosis—is a common concern in dentistry. It can stem from several oral health issues or even indicate systemic conditions. Here’s a breakdown from a dental perspective:
🦷 Common Dental Causes of Bad Breath
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Food debris, plaque, and bacteria build up, especially on the tongue and between teeth.
- Gum Disease (Gingivitis/Periodontitis)
- Caused by bacterial infection of the gums, leading to foul-smelling sulfur compounds.
- Tooth Decay
- Cavities harbor bacteria that can produce odor.
- Tongue Coating
- The back of the tongue often collects bacteria, food particles, and dead cells.
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
- Saliva helps cleanse the mouth. Less saliva means more bacterial buildup.
- Infections or Ulcers
- Mouth infections, surgical wounds (like after tooth removal), or ulcers can contribute to bad breath.
🛠️ Dental Treatments & Recommendations
- Professional Cleaning: Removes plaque and tartar above and below the gumline.
- Treating Gum Disease: Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), antibiotics if needed.
- Restoring Cavities: Fillings or root canals if decay is present.
- Tongue Scraping: Dentists may recommend or demonstrate how to clean the tongue.
- Fluoride & Antibacterial Rinses: To control bacteria and promote healing.
- Saliva Substitutes: For those with dry mouth (especially in the elderly or medication users).
🪥 Daily Oral Care Tips to Prevent Bad Breath
- Brush twice daily and floss once.
- Clean your tongue daily.
- Stay hydrated; chew sugar-free gum if needed to stimulate saliva.
- Use antimicrobial mouthwash (e.g., chlorhexidine or zinc-based).
- Visit the dentist every 6 months for a checkup.
🚩 When to See a Dentist
- Persistent bad breath that doesn’t go away with brushing/mouthwash
- Bleeding gums or loose teeth
- Dry mouth symptoms
- Sores or coating on the tongue
By following these tips, you can prevent or treat halitosis quickly. If you ever have any questions or concerns, visit Smile Care Dental Center in Abbotsford at 32465 South Fraser Way #3, Abbotsford, BC V2T 1X4 or call us at 604-744-2262
