Nobody wants to deal with bad breath, but the unfortunate truth is that this is a pretty common problem in the dental world. In order to effectively treat bad breath, you have to first understand why it develops. Keep reading to learn more from our Elmhurst dentists…
We all deal with bad breath occasionally, when we consume something particularly odorous, like garlic or onions. This type of bad breath is temporary, and not something to be particularly concerned about.
More chronic bad breath, on the other hand, is pretty inconvenient, and can actually indicate a larger oral health problem.
The same harmful oral bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease release unpleasant odors as they grow and multiply. So, if you are noticing frequent bad breath, it may actually be a sign that there are too many bacteria in your mouth.
One reason this occurs is because you are dealing with dry mouth. Saliva is your body’s natural way of neutralizing bacteria freshening your breath, so you really want to encourage saliva production day to day. It is crucial that you drink enough water to stay hydrated. You can even get into the habit of rinsing your mouth with water after eating, as this flushes away dental debris while prompting saliva production.
There are many different breath freshening products on the market today, but you want to take a look at the ingredient list before you pop that mint or chew that gum. Generally speaking, you should look for a sugar-free formulation, since bacteria are actually strengthened when they’re able to eat sugars. Chewing a sugary piece of gum may actually compound your bad breath problem in the long-term.
Our Elmhurst dentists can give you more information about how to manage bad breath and care for your smile day to day at home. Contact our team by phone or through the Contact Us page when you are ready to get started!