What to do about bad breath

11-10-2019

Most people will suffer from bad breath (or halitosis) at some point during their lives. It’s usually someting that can be fixed easily though, so take a look at our guide to banishing the bad breath!

1. If you’re a smoker, quit. I know it’s easier said than done, but it’s the leading cause of bad breath. Plus, your body will thank you for quitting too.
2. Have you been to the dentist lately? Sometimes, if it’s been a few months, you may have plaque and calculus build up around your teeth, and it’ll be full of bacteria. A scale and polish will get rid of this in no time. Make sure you’re flossing or using interdental brushes to keep the plaque at bay between dental visits.
3. Whilst we’re on about dentists, brushing your tongue can also help.
4. Drink plenty of water. Lots of people with bad breath are sometimes just dehydrated. Make sure you’re keeping yourself topped up throughout the day!
5. Food. What you eat can have an affect on your breath. Keep away from smelly food such as garlic or spicy curry.
6. Check your medications. Sometimes, medication can cause you to have dry mouth, which can lead to bad breath. Some just have bad breath causing chemicals in them. If you’re concerned, go and ask your GP.
7. Dry mouth can be caused by a number of things, so if you’re concerned, ask your GP for some advice. Some people just get this in the morning after sleeping all night with their mouth open!
8. Infections in your mouth, or open wounds, such as you get after a tooth extraction may cause bad breath. Usually, these heal on their own but if it’s lingering, get to your dentist and have it checked out.
9. Other mouth, nose and throat conditions. Bad breath can occasionally stem from small stones that form in the tonsils and are covered with bacteria that produce odor. Infections or chronic inflammation in the nose, sinuses or throat, which can contribute to postnasal drip, also can cause bad breath.
10. Other causes. Diseases, such as some cancers, and conditions such as metabolic disorders, can cause a distinctive breath odor as a result of chemicals they produce. Chronic reflux of stomach acids can be associated with bad breath. In young children, it can be caused by a foreign body, such as a piece of food, lodged in a nostril.

If you’ve been down the list and still can’t fathom out where your bad breath is coming from, then a trip to the dentist or your GP may be in order, just to get checked out.

Just make sur eyou’re brushing twice a day, flossing or using interdental aids once a day, and if needs be, using a mouthwash imbetween meals.

If you have any questions or would like to get checked out, please call us on 0121 550 6958.