More often than not, bad breath is often an indication of poor dental hygiene. However, sometimes the bad breath could signify the presence of certain health conditions that need to be addressed. Most people turn to temporary solutions such as gums, mints, and mouthwash. However, it can be an uphill task attempting to fix it without a proper understanding of why you may be suffering from bad breath. A condition such as halitosis, a chronic bad breath that has no cure, can save yourself the stress and embarrassment of constantly having bad breath by knowing how to control it. It all starts by understanding the potential reasons that could trigger bad breath. This is the only way to help ease the smell by changing the cause, regulating it, or preventing the triggers. Below are some of the top reasons why many people with bad breathe continue to suffer.
Poor Dental/Oral Hygiene
A simple thing as brushing your teeth is enough to help you get rid of bad breath. However, You may also have to do more than brush your teeth. A combination of brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash is the secret to having fresh breathe continuously. So make sure to develop an oral cleaning routine and stick to it.
Periodontal Disease
Unfortunately, sometimes even brushing your teeth may not be enough if you are suffering from gum and jawbone diseases such as periodontal disease due to poor oral hygiene. In addition, sometimes regular brushing is not enough to get rid of the stubborn oral dirt. Therefore, you may have to schedule a professional dental cleaning with an experienced dentist to help you maintain a fresh breath.
Poor Food Choices
If you are not careful about the food and drinks you choose, you risk altering the state of your breath, triggering bad breathe. Some spices and food flavorings are great to taste and enjoy, but they do not leave a delightful smell after they are consumed. Garlic and onions tend to have such characteristics, and the smell gets into the bloodstream and the lungs, thus causing you to breathe the smell of the food you ate.
Coffee and alcohol also behave in the same manner. However, these two lead to reduced saliva production, thus allowing more bacteria to infest, causing a bad odor. Diets in high sugar also influence the smell since bacteria feed on sugar. High protein and low carb diets also tend to have similar traits of bad breath. It is difficult to break down proteins meaning that sulfurous gases will be released due to indigestion, triggering a bad odor.
Poor Habits Like Smoking
Tobacco products tend to affect your smell. It is, therefore, not surprising that smokers have a bad smell. Besides causing bad breath, smoking also triggers severe other health issues, including cancer, strokes, lung disease, and heart disease, to mention a few.
Poor Digestion
Digestive issues tend to be a leading cause of bad smell and breathing. Digestive issues such as poor digestion, constipation, and bowel issues often lead to acid reflux, which causes a bad odor from the foods you consume. When the acid reflux is severe, it leads to more serious issues and complications besides bad breathe.
Medical Issues
Besides the common ailments linked to oral hygiene, it is possible to suffer from bad breathe because of the said ailments. Respiratory diseases, kidney disease, blood disorders, and post-natal drip conditions can trigger bad breathing. It is important to seek a doctor’s opinion when you suddenly breathe despite excellent oral hygiene. It could be indicative of other issues.