Halitosis is the medical term for bad breath. There are a number of causes of bad breath as well as some simple solutions.
First, bad breath is a nuisance, embarrassing and can limit or inhibit your interaction with others. However, bad breath can also be a sign of health problems. So, chronic bad breath is not to be ignored.
The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. Failure to brush regularly causes bacteria to grow inside the mouth. This not only causes bad breath, but also leads to cavities and other dental problems. Brush and floss at least twice a day, and don’t forget to brush your tongue. Keep a toothbrush at work or school so it’s handy to brush after lunch. After brushing, rinsing with an antibacterial mouthwash is another good way to freshen breath and keep your mouth healthy.
Because bad breath can be a warning sign of other health issues, regular dental checkups and cleanings are extremely important. During the exam and routine cleaning, your dentist can check for gum disease, plaque build up and other potential problems.
Certain health conditions or bad habits can also cause bad breath. For example, smoking and chewing tobacco are both extremely dangerous habits—contributing to not only bad breath, but also serious health issues such as heart attack, stroke and cancer.
Other health conditions such as acid reflux, sinus infections and dry mouth are common causes of bad breath.
If you’re suffering from halitosis, and want to do something about the bad in your breath, start with making an appointment for a check up, today.