Did you know that bad breath affects an estimated 25% of the population? Otherwise known as halitosis, this condition can cause embarrassment and anxiety to those who have it. But luckily when it is due to inadequate teeth care, it can be easy to remedy by flossing, mouth washing, tongue scraping, and more regular brushing sessions.
But sometimes bad breath can have more serious causes than just poor dental hygiene. If you suffer from halitosis, it’s important to know the facts. Now is a great time to learn more about the top five possible halitosis causes here.
1. Food
One of the most common causes of bad breath is diet. What you eat plays a role in how you smell, since pungent foods like cheese, processed meats, garlic, and onions can leave a lingering odor in the mouth. Beverages like coffee and alcohol can also have the same effect, so you may want to limit your intake of all of these if you want better breath.
2. Smoking
Tobacco products are notorious for causing halitosis since they have a strong, distinct smell. While many people smoke to relax, bad breath causes anxiety too, so it may be worth it to take a serious look at this habit and find something less odorous. Plus, smoking has serious health effects and can cause disease, disability, and death so it is worth it to consider quitting.
3. Dieting
If you have reduced your food intake because of dieting, that may be the culprit for your bad breath. Saliva is produced as food is chewed, which helps whisk away bad bacteria and odors. Going long stretches between meals or eating less can exacerbate this condition and cause plaque and bacteria buildup.
4. Medications
Another factor that should be considered is whether or not you are taking medications. Certain medications can give you a dry mouth, and the lack of saliva production can cause bad breath. Other medications can lead to indigestion, or they can produce a bad odor while they are being broken down in your body.
5. Gum Disease Is One of the Top Most Common Halitosis Causes
One of the most common causes of halitosis is gum disease since it goes with tartar buildup in your mouth. If you have gum disease, it is important to floss every day, keep your teeth clean, and get regular teeth scaling from your dentist. Click to learn more about it and get rid of your bad breath and have a halitosis treatment.
Learn More About Halitosis
If you were wondering what causes halitosis, now you know! And since you’ve learned about some of the top halitosis causes, you can be proactive and continue your research. If you think you may have one of these, it is important to seek professional help from a doctor or dentist right away.
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