Halitosis, or bad breath, can make you very self-conscious. In some cases, professional help is the best way to reduce or eliminate this problem. If you suffer from persistent halitosis, consult with your dentist to diagnose the causes.
Common Causes of Halitosis
Halitosis can occur because your everyday dental hygiene is not as thorough as it could be. Some simple ways of preventing halitosis include:
• Brushing and flossing regularly
• Avoiding strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic
• Cleaning your tongue with your toothbrush or a tongue scraper
Halitosis often occurs due to a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, so attending to everyday oral hygiene, regular dental visits, and avoiding foods or beverages that can cause unwanted odors will go a long way in helping you avoid bad breath.
Professional Treatment for Halitosis
If your bad breath does not respond to these simple methods of prevention, consult with your dentist. Your halitosis might be occurring because of more complex issues or due to another problem. These issues can include:
• Dry mouth
• Tooth decay
• Sinus problems
• Gum disease
Treatment for the underlying cause of your halitosis is the best way to eliminate it. This is particularly important if the underlying cause could lead to long-term problems. For example, if your bad breath occurs because of tooth decay or gum disease, treating these problems is essential to your overall oral health. Allowing decay or gum disease to progress can result in long-term damage, including tooth loss.
Problems with the sinuses could also be related to tooth decay, impaction, or even an infection in a tooth. Infection in the teeth can spread to the sinuses, and from there can affect the skull or even the brain. The long-term effects of this kind of infection can be very serious or even fatal, so if you suspect your halitosis might be a symptom of an infection, you should have it diagnosed right away.
For more information about halitosis, what causes it, and how to get rid of it, please contact Dr. Adam Tan, serving Barrie Ontario and surrounding communities for a consultation or to schedule an appointment.
