Having bad breath from time to time - such as after eating a meal with garlic or onions - isn’t a cause for concern. However, having unpleasant breath on a regular basis could indicate that you have an oral health problem.
But there’s no need to put up with the embarrassment of bad breath or trying to hide it with mints or gum. The Dentists @ Belmore are here to help you achieve fresh breath and a healthier smile.
In this blog we explore some of the common causes of bad breath, and how your dentist can help.
Tooth Decay
Severe tooth decay can cause your breath to have a foul odour. Your teeth can develop decay when bacteria are allowed to feed on sugars and starches. This can often happen when you don’t brush often enough or thoroughly.
Your dentist can help get rid of bad breath by treating tooth decay. If your decay is mild, this may include the application of fluoride treatment to strengthen your tooth enamel and prevent decay from getting worse. For more advanced decay, this may require a filling or crown, a root canal or even a tooth extraction.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is another common cause of bad breath. When you have periodontal disease - which is a more serious form of gum disease - you might have unpleasant breath that doesn’t go away. This happens due to the presence of bacteria that attack your gum tissue.
Your dentist can help treat gum disease, which should ease unpleasant breath. In addition to having treatment for gum disease, your dentist might recommend using mouthwash and toothpaste that has antibacterial properties. These products help reduce the amount of plaque on your teeth and get rid of bacteria that cause gum disease.
Dry mouth
If your mouth feels constantly dry you may have a condition medically known as xerostomia, which occurs when saliva glands aren’t functioning properly. Saliva is essential for neutralising acids and washing away odour-causing bacteria in the mouth.
A persistent dry mouth can cause bad breath, not to mention cavities and gum disease. Your dentist can recommend products or treatments to help alleviate dry mouth symptoms and promote saliva production.
Regular check-ups are key
Seeing your dentist for routine cleanings is the most effective way to control bad breath and get on top of it before it becomes too noticeable by others.
During your check-up, your dentist will check for tooth decay and gum disease. If you have either of these dental problems, your dentist will make sure you receive treatment. Prompt care for decay and gum disease, along with brushing and flossing at home, can lower your risk of having to deal with frequent or persistent bad breath.
Book an appointment today
If you’re concerned about your breath, or you’re overdue for a check-up, The Dentists @ Belmore is here to help. We’re a judgement-free zone and are here to help you achieve the best dental health possible.
Visit our website to book an appointment today.
