Bad Breath: Rumors, Truths & Misnomers

From the foods we eat, to the medicines we take, what we ingest from day-to-day has the potential to greatly affect our bodies – particularly our breath. When it comes to halitosis, the scientific name for bad breath, there are a number of bad breath causes that you may have never considered. In addition to proven causes and cures, bad breath rumors often circulate, making it difficult to determine fact from fiction when sifting through the helpful pieces of oral hygiene advice. Bad breath misnomers include items like breath mints – which are commonly thought to improve your breath – however, these mints contain sugars that actually feed the bacteria in your mouth, contributing to bad breath.

Once detected, bad breath causes many people to feel insecure, leading them to shy away from close conversations or some social contact. Because bad breath can often be a symptom of a larger problem, it is important that the issue be diagnosed and addressed in order to reach healthy results. Exploring the facts about bad breath will help you maintain proper oral care and dispel bad breath rumors in the process.

Examples of Bad Breath Causes

Bad breath rumors could lead you to believe that the sources of this problem only lie with a small number of culprits, such as a complete lack of oral care or an overabundance of an ingredient, such as garlic, in one’s diet. Although these can very well be contributing factors, bad breath causes often vary much more than that.

Bad breath is a symptom of many chronic medical conditions. In order to identify the source of your bad breath, an experienced dentist will give you an oral exam. If it is determined that your bad breath is not attributed to an oral problem such as gum disease, it is suggested that you visit a doctor in order to resolve the issue.

Some of the medical conditions that could result in bad breath include:

• Post-nasal drip
• Sinus infection
• Acid reflux
• Bronchitis
• Diabetes

Bad Breath Rumors or Truths?

Test your knowledge of bad breath rumors and causes with these statements.

Bad breath can be caused by taking antibiotics

Truth. Some antibiotics cause a side effect known as “dry mouth.” The characteristic lack of saliva that an individual experiences with dry mouth prevents food particles from being properly washed away and can cause bad breath.

You can sweeten bad breath by eating a piece of candy

Bad breath rumor. It’s unfortunate, but it is often the case that candy and chewing gum containing sugars can actually do more harm than good. The bacteria causing bad breath feeds off these sugars and multiplies.

Bad breath could be a symptom of gingivitis

Truth. A common cause of halitosis is gingivitis – a form of gum disease. If while brushing or flossing, you notice your gums begin to bleed, this is a sign of gingivitis. Schedule an appointment with an experienced dentist for further examination.

Gum disease will eventually go away on its own

Bad breath rumor. With treatment, gum disease can be reversed, if in its early stages. Late-stage disease, such as periodontal disease, can affect the structure of your teeth and gums.

When plaque becomes tartar, it cannot be removed

Truth. Tartar is a build-up of plaque that settles around your teeth at the gum line. Once it calcifies, it must be removed by a dentist.

Cleaning your tongue can help to improve your breath

Truth. A white coating that can sometimes be observed on the surface of your tongue is actually a build-up of bacteria. You may be familiar with this symptom, if you have ever experienced dry mouth. Because this build-up of germs contributes to bad breath, you’ll want to use a tool such as a tongue scraper, to remove the bacteria. You should also remember to remain hydrated to avoid dry mouth.

Avoiding Bad Breath Causes

An excretion of sulfur from bacteria found inside your mouth is what creates the odors associated with bad breath. An easy way to keep bad breath at bay is to stay hydrated as often as possible. When you drink water, you promote the production of saliva, which helps wash away food particles.

Take proper steps to care for your natural teeth as well as any dental devices, including braces or dentures, which may require more maintenance, as food and bacteria can easily be trapped between these devices. Avoid the growth of bacteria on dentures by soaking removable dentures in an antibacterial denture solution overnight.

Bad breath causes can be avoided or treated with proper care. It is important that you visit your dentist at least twice a year in order to address any oral health issues that you may be experiencing.

Searching for a dental practice that can help you address bad breath rumors and causes? Visit our office at Stonewalk Family Dentistry. Our highly-trained staff of in-house specialists serves residents of Milton, Georgia, as well as surrounding cities, such as Alpharetta. Call us at (770) 777-1911 or contact us online for more information.