Dentist in Chicago Explains Causes of Bad Breath

Everyone experiences halitosis (bad breath) from time to time. However, certain people have problems with chronic halitosis, which can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. There are a few common causes for this issue, and some treatments that may help, which our dentist in Chicago explains below!

Causes of Bad Breath

Some causes of bad breath include:

• Smoking
• Dry mouth, which may be caused by dehydration or certain medication side effects
• Frequently consuming certain foods, such as onions and garlic
• Infection, decay or abscess
• Tonsil stones — small pieces of debris that build up in the crevices of the tonsils
• GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease, which causes heartburn and damage to the esophagus)

Dry mouth is also a serious risk factor for developing dental problems and tooth decay, so it is important to treat it as soon as possible. Additionally, infections and abscesses can turn into medical emergencies if not treated promptly — it is critical to resolve these conditions immediately! 

Treatments

There are different treatments for bad breath, depending on the cause, such as: 

• Quitting smoking
• Using hydrating mouth rinses and lozenges for medication-related dry mouth 
• Dental treatments to resolve infections or other problems
• Removing or flushing out tonsil stones
• Getting treatment for GERD

Ask our dentist if you have issues with chronic bad breath. We can help you resolve problems with the proper treatment!

Home Care

To avoid bacteria buildup that may contribute to bad breath, always brush and floss your teeth after you eat. Another good habit is to always brush your tongue or use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria and debris that can cause bad breath. Drink plenty of water to avoid dry mouth and of course, schedule regular visits with our dentist to ensure your dental health is optimal!

Contact Our Dentist in Chicago To Schedule An Appointment!

The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about this and other topics related to dentistry, feel free to contact Dente Complete Dentistry, with a convenient dental office in Chicago by calling 773.295.0562 or by clicking here.