When it comes to bad breath, we’ve all had our moments. Many patients can recall a time when they’ve had bad breath, such as during a bout of strep throat or after enjoying garlic bread at a fancy restaurant. But what do you do when bad breath becomes a daily problem? What if you are unable to address your bad breath, or halitosis, with tradition means? Dr. David S. Frey gets behind the cause of bad breath and the ways in which patients can resolve the problem, especially if it’s becoming a daily issue.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath may be caused by a variety of different factors. These include:
- Foods. Consuming certain foods, including spices such as garlic, can contribute to bad breath that linger long after you’ve enjoyed them. This is often a more situational problem instead of a chronic one.
- The use of tobacco products. Chewing tobacco and smoking cigarettes can contribute to the development of unpleasant mouth odors. Patients who use tobacco products not only deal with bad breath, but are often more likely to develop gum disease than nonsmokers.
- Dry mouth. The saliva in the mouth helps in removing food particles that can cause bad odors. Patients who have a condition that keeps their mouth dry, known as xerostomia, may experience bad breath on a more regular basis, regardless of how often they brush their teeth. This dryness may be caused due to a problem with the salivary glands or some medical conditions and diseases which should be evaluated.
- Medications. Some pharmaceuticals may indirectly result in the development of bad breath if they contribute to dry mouth. Others may be broken down in the body and release certain chemicals which can cause mouth odors.
- Conditions of the mouth, nose, or throat. Some bacterial conditions can result in the production of unwanted odor on the breath. This may include sinus infections, chronic inflammation, and even postnasal dripping.
- Acid reflux. This condition, sometimes referred to as GERD or “gastroesophageal reflux disease,” may be associated with bad breath, due to the acids that can result in the stomach.
- Poor dental hygiene. Sometimes, bad breath is just a symptom of poor oral hygiene. With regular brushing, flossing, and dental visits, many patients can get this type of bad breath under control quickly and easily with the assistance of their dental team.
Visit With Dr. David S. Frey Today To Learn More About Controlling Bad Breath And Other Dental Problems
Beverly Hills, CA area patients can call (310) 276-4537 to connect with our front office team and book a consultation visit and evaluation to determine the cause of their problem and find the right solution! The practice, located in Suite 414 at 462 Linden Drive, is currently accepting new patients and families in need of quality dental care.
