As you lean in closer to tell your friend something, you’re shocked at their almost primitive reflex to pull away from your personal proximity. This is followed up by the embarrassment settling in and then it begins to click; your breath smells. It’s safe to assume that most of us, at some point, have had bad breath.
Also referred to as halitosis, bad breath is common after consuming particular foods and drinks or waking up in the morning after a good night’s sleep. It can be an embarrassing part of socializing, and for some, it may be a more present issue in their day-to-day endeavors. Not only can bad breath be an indication that your oral routine needs a step up, it is most famous for causing mental distress. Constantly concerned with how you’re perceived by others and the stressful social ramifications that come along with it.
The Triggers
Bad breath can be linked to a variety of different reasons. Certain types of food and beverages (like coffee and alcohol) or a set of teeth that haven’t been brushed in a while, would create the perfect environment for your mouth to smell unpleasant. These are common bodily responses that we all are susceptible to, and have experienced at some point or another. Most bad breath can be combated properly by routine and thorough brushing and flossing; removing food particles, bacteria, and plaque from the crevasses of the mouth and surface of the tongue which are responsible for the odor.
Beyond that remains more complex ailments which can contribute to an unpleasant smelling breath. Some of these include;
- Gum diseases like gingivitis and periodontitis give room to foul smelling bacteria along the gumline.
- Dry mouth condition; where the salivary glands fail to produce enough saliva to moisten your mouth.
- Tonsillitis, due to the inflammation of the mucous membranes of the tonsils.
- Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or sinusitis, which inflame your airways.
- Gastrointestinal diseases which produce an excess of acid in your digestive tract.
- More serious ailments like kidney disease and diabetes can also cause serious cases of bad breath.
Stopping It Head On
Certain actions will almost always result in bad breath, however; halitosis may be warded off with other actions just as reliably. The established rule for maintaining a healthy smelling mouth, is to practice a healthy oral routine.
The vast majority of bad breath stems from oral causes, and with a little more attention to detail, life’s daily interactions could be drastically enhanced. Some of these details include;
- Routine dental checkups to ensure your oral health is on the right path.
- Brushing your teeth at least twice a day, especially after meals.
- Take time to brush your tongue; it should be pink! This is a common breeding ground for yellow coloured bacteria which is responsible for bad
- Flossing daily, ensuring the hard-to-reach areas between your teeth are cleaned out.
- Using alcohol-free mouthwash before going to sleep.
- Avoiding all tobacco-based products, including smoking and chewing.
- Staying hydrated and drinking enough fluids to ensure your mouth remains moisturized.
When Nothing Else works
Serious cases of halitosis extend beyond the inclination that there may be serious complications within your oral anatomy or bodily health. It may have devastating ramifications in your everyday social interactions. Limiting your ability to express yourself freely and properly connect with others, coupled with an unsettling paranoia about the judgment you’re receiving.
If you’ve attempted to remedy bad breath with the previously stated information, and haven’t seen any acceptable results, you may potentially have an underlying issue as the root cause. This can only be accurately diagnosed and remedied by a professional’s touch!
Whether severe or not, it’s encouraged for you to get in contact with a dental professional regarding this issue. We are dedicated to improving your relationship with your smile and bad breath is not welcome in any relationship!