An estimated 50 million individuals in the United States have chronic bad breath, which is also known as halitosis. However, many individuals fail to get treatment because they are embarrassed about their condition. Although bad breath is typically caused by periodontal and dental diseases, there are other causes of bad breath. If you are suffering from bad breath, it is important that you visit your dentist to identify and treat the cause.
Dental Problems and Bad Breath
Proteins that are broken down in the mouth are the cause of 90% of bad breath cases. If your bad breath is caused by oral problems, it will typically smell like sulfur or rotten eggs. This is usually caused by poor oral hygiene.
In other situations, bad breath that is caused by poor oral hygiene can smell like fecal odor. When bad breath smells like fecal odor, it is usually because of protein breakdown on the tongue or gum tissue. In addition, it can also be caused by other imbalances in the mouth.
Infections in the Mouth, Nose, or Throat
There are times when chronic bad breath can be caused by nose, sinus, or throat problems. In most cases, this is caused by postnasal drip, but it can also be caused by a sinus infection. This is because bacteria will feed on mucus that your body produces when you have a sinus infection.
Smoking and Tobacco Use
Tobacco products, such as cigarettes and chewing tobacco, can cause an individual to have bad breath. In addition to bad breath, smoking can also cause individuals to have dry mouth. Those who smoke are at an increased risk of developing gum disease, which can also cause halitosis.
Bad Breath and the Digestive System
Problems with the digestive system can cause bad breath. When air from the stomach moves up through the esophagus and into the oral cavity, halitosis can develop. However, in most cases, bad breath that is caused by the stomach is typically a sign of an imbalance in the digestive system. These problems could include GERD, GORD, bloating, bowel obstruction, or constipation.
Treatment for Bad Breath
If you have bad breath, it is important to visit your dentist for routine exams and cleanings. This will remove tartar and plaque that can accumulate between the teeth and lead to halitosis. In addition, a dentist will be able to determine if the cause of bad breath is from poor oral hygiene or another condition.
You can also drink plenty of water that will keep your mouth moist and help to wash away bacteria. If you smoke, you can ask your dentist for tips to help you quit.
If you are in need of treatment for bad breath, contact us at Mountain View Dental in Pleasant View, Utah, to schedule an appointment. We offer a comprehensive list of dental services that include dental exams, fluoride treatment, fillings, root canal therapy, teeth whitening, and more. Call today to ask our friendly staff any questions you may have.
