30 Mar 6 Causes of Bad Breath and How to Overcome Them
1. Dry mouth
Dry mouth can be the result of a range of factors including dehydration, some medications and alcohol consumption. Ultimately, dry mouth means saliva quantity has decreased and needs to replenish. You can increase saliva quantity by drinking water more frequently and chewing gum. The other alternatives are mouth rinses and sprays that mimic the natural properties of saliva. This includes products such as Oral 7 and Biotene mouth rinses.
2. Bacteria that accumulate on the tongue
Brushing just your teeth will only remove bacteria that sits on and around your teeth. Plaque can also sit in the grooves of your tongue and the rest of your mouth. Try a full mouth clean and remove the plaque on your tongue and the insides of your cheeks. You may also find a white layer on your tongue that gradually decreases when brushed. This is the plaque coming off!
3. Poor saliva quality
Saliva should have a water-like consistency. In some cases, saliva can be thick and ropey. Mouth rinses can be particularly helpful to mimic good saliva quality.
4. Gum disease
Gum disease that is left untreated for a prolonged period of time will deter natural microflora of the mouth. Acid-producing bacteria can begin to flourish, causing an acidic smell. In order to overcome this source of bacteria, see us at Sensational Smiles for a hygiene visit. During your first visit, we will record and diagnose the gum disease that is presented and treatment plan deep cleans to remove all sources of acid-producing bacteria.
5. Smoking
Smoking starves the mouth of oxygen and the normal microflora balance of the mouth. Drinking water and replenishing lost saliva is essential for smokers.
6. Plaque traps
Any area of the mouth that you cannot reach with a toothbrush or floss becomes a plaque trap where bacteria accumulates without disruption. If this is the case, your Sensational Smiles dental professional will pinpoint the area of concern and clean it out for you, and teach you how to keep the area clean.
