Bad Breath: A Problem to Consider

Almost everyone experiences bad breath after eating certain foods or in certain situations. Bad breath is normal, but only to a certain point. When it becomes persistent, it may indicate a more serious issue. This is why it is important to see a dentist when bad breath becomes chronic. Together, we will find the right solution. Here is what you should know.

Temporary Bad Breath

Morning breath is very common, especially when waking up. During the night, saliva production decreases significantly and the mouth tends to become dry. This encourages the growth of bacteria. These bacteria produce unpleasant gases as they feed on food debris. For this reason, it is normal to have bad breath in the morning, but a good breakfast and proper brushing are enough to eliminate the issue.

Eating certain foods can also cause occasional bad breath, especially onions, garlic, leeks, and other foods in the same family. They contain slow-digesting sugars that bacteria love to feed on. Some people also have difficulty digesting them, which can make bad breath worse. The same is true for spicy foods and coffee, which contains volatile compounds, and can leave the breath smelling unpleasant.

In the situations above, bad breath is occasional and temporary, and it is completely normal. It should not worry you. However, when bad breath becomes chronic, meaning persistent, it is important to look into the cause.

Causes of Chronic Bad Breath

Chronic bad breath is usually linked to another oral health problem. In all cases, it is important to see a dentist to evaluate your condition and identify what may be causing it.

• Inadequate oral hygiene: Brushing your teeth after each meal and before bed removes food debris and bacteria. Their presence in the mouth can contribute to unpleasant odors. It is also essential to floss at least once a day to properly clean between the teeth. Neglecting these daily habits can lead to several issues.
• Untreated dental problems: Cavities or untreated gum disease allow bacteria to accumulate in the mouth. Since these bacteria release unpleasant gases, chronic bad breath is often a sign that an oral problem is progressing.
• Periodontal disease: Bad breath is a common symptom of these more advanced infections affecting the gums and the supporting tissues of the teeth.
• Alcohol and tobacco: These substances dry out the mouth and encourage bacterial growth. They also disrupt the mouth’s chemical balance, which can lead to unpleasant odors.
• Dry mouth: Since saliva helps neutralize bacteria, low saliva production is directly linked to bad breath.
• Digestive or general health problems: Digestive disorders, such as acid reflux, can affect the balance of the mouth and cause unpleasant odors. This is also true for systemic conditions such as diabetes, liver disease, and kidney disease.

Whatever the cause of chronic bad breath, it is important to see a dentist for a full examination and diagnosis. Chronic bad breath should never be ignored, as it may indicate untreated conditions that could lead to complications. If you have questions or concerns about your situation, contact our team to schedule a complete dental exam with your dentist and a professional cleaning with your dental hygienist.