MORNING
BREATH
How to Avoid
There's more to bad breath than
meets the nose.
Halitosis, or bad breath,
isn't just about the dinner
you had last night or the coffee
you sipped this morning.
While those foods and drinks
can certainly be the culprit,
they're not the only ones you
should look out for.
Here are six causes
of bad breath you probably
didn’t know until now:
4
1
Gum
Disease
Gum disease is a leading cause
of bad breath, and it's also one
of the most common dental
problems in the United States.
Gingivitis, referred to as the earliest
stage of gum disease,
causes bad breath because
bacteria accumulates in the mouth.
Gum disease can occur when you don't pay attention to your oral health.
If you fail to brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque will build up
on your teeth and gums.
The bacteria in plaque produces
compounds that bring
an unpleasant odor.
Visiting your dentist regularly
prevents the likelihood
of gum disease, especially
if you get professional teeth
cleaning done every 6 months.
8
2
Dry
Mouth
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia,
is a common condition that can cause
bad breath.
When your mouth isn't producing
enough saliva, it becomes a breeding
ground for bacteria.
The bacteria then causes
bad breath and a host of other
dental problems.
Sucking on sugar-free candy
or gum will help increase
saliva production.
Drinking plenty of water likewise
keeps your mouth moist.
These things don't require
any effort and are easy
to do throughout the day.
12
3
Infections
Any infection, including those
in the nose, throat, or lungs,
can cause bad breath.
Bacteria from the infection
can spread to the mouth
and cause bad breath.
Most folks don't realize they
have an infection until they start
experiencing bad breath.
Tonsillitis, sinus infections,
and bronchitis are common
infections that lead
to bad breath.
See your doctor if you're
experiencing a persistent
cough, fever, or body aches.
These could be signs
of an infection, too.
16
4
Tooth
Decay
Tooth decay is a leading cause
of bad breath in adults.
When bacteria from food and
drink accumulates on the teeth,
it combines with saliva to create
an unpleasant odor.
This odor becomes worse
as the decay progresses.
Tooth decay is easily preventable
by regularly brushing and flossing
your teeth and visiting your dentist
for check-ups.
19
5
Smoking
Cigarette smoke contains toxins
that irritate the gums and cause
bad breath.
This is especially true when
smoking cigarettes immediately
after eating.
Did you know that smoking
contributes to gum disease, too?
People who smoke are more likely
to develop gum disease than
those who don't.
Quitting smoking is a no-brainer for your health – and your breath.
23
6
Diet
What you eat can also cause
bad breath.
Some foods, like onions
and garlic, contain sulfur
compounds released
when digested.
These compounds give food its flavor,
but they can also make your breath
smell bad.
Unlike all the other causes in this list,
you can to control what you eat,
so it's an easier fix.
Halitosis can be remedied.
You just have to figure out the cause
and take steps to address it.
If you're experiencing bad breath,
don't ignore the problem – find the
cause and take steps to fix it.
Your mouth will thank you
and so will your friends.
Our Chandler dentists will make
sure you have a healthy mouth
and a beautiful smile.
Whether you need cosmetic dentistry,
bridges or crowns, or just a checkup,
their staff will make sure your visit
is comfortable.
Chandler, AZ 85286
888-414-1852
thebestchandlerdentist@gmail.com
dentist-chandler.com