5 Major Causes of Halitosis You Should Look Out for

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath or fetor oris, affects individuals at some point in their lives. The smell might originate from the teeth, mouth, or due to a particular health condition. Bad breath may go away on its own, but it could be a chronic condition in some cases. The American Dental Association (ADA) also states that at least 50 percent of grownups experienced bad breath in their lifetime.

One of the best methods to avoid bad breath is by knowing its leading causes. So let’s discuss what causes bad breath so you can prevent it efficiently.

What Are the Causes of Halitosis?

Bad breath can affect one’s confidence and cause psychological problems and anxiety. Bad breath can be tricky because you won’t even know you have it, and if people around you inform you about it, it could be going on for a while. Left unattended, it can impact your work and social relationships. So we’ve gathered the five common causes of halitosis to tell you what to avoid to prevent this troublesome condition.

1. Diet

Everybody knows onions and garlic won’t give you fresh breath and can obviously cause bad breath, but more dietary culprits can do more than those. Other foods that may trigger foul breath include horseradish, peanut butter, canned tuna, coffee, an abundance of protein, and dairy products.

2. Poor oral hygiene

Poor oral hygiene could be the most apparent cause of halitosis mentioned in this list. When you do not clean your mouth and teeth daily, food particles that gradually become a sticky buildup of bacteria can form on your teeth. The uneven surface of the tonsils and tongue may trap bacteria and food particles in the mouth which will cause bad breath odor.

Poor oral care can cause serious health conditions like dental cavities and periodontal disease, which are also associated with foul breath. The best defense against bad breath will mainly revolve around a consistent and careful oral care routine. Routine visits to the dentist and professional teeth cleaning are also key.

Do you have an aching tooth that’s been bothering you for many days? Go to an emergency dentist in Richmond Hill for immediate treatment.

3. Gum disease

Gum disease or periodontitis happens when plaque isn’t removed from the teeth. Plaque can ultimately harden into tartar, which brushing can’t remove. Attempting to do so may aggravate your gums, either. Tartar can form pockets or tiny openings between the teeth and gums. The food particles, bacteria, or dental plaque collected in these pockets may cause a strong odor.

Gum disease is sometimes caused by misaligned or crooked teeth. If you have malocclusion of teeth, you should consider having braces in Airdrie from orthodontists to fix this condition.

In some cases, an orthodontist may also recommend Invisalign Markham, depending on your condition’s severity or suitability.

4. Alcohol and tobacco use

Drinking alcohol can cause a dry mouth, causing more production of bacteria. More bacteria can cause bad breath, so it is essential to observe moderation when drinking alcohol and not forget to drink plenty of water afterward. Smoking cigarettes can leave behind an unpleasant odor in the mouth.

Moreover, using any tobacco product increases your risk of developing periodontal disease and severe health problems. Quitting smoking can prevent halitosis and even protect your overall health.

5. Dry mouth

A dry mouth, or xerostomia, is a major culprit and contributor to foul-smelling breath. Dry mouth may happen for numerous factors, ranging from age, stress, tobacco use, and medications. Figuring out what’s causing your dry mouth and treating it might help combat halitosis.