08
Mar
A Boise Dentists Guide To Bad Breath
Bad breath is something we’ve all dealt with at some point or another during our lives. From morning breath to the foods we eat to oral health issues, bad breath affects millions of people in the U.S. While bad breath can be an embarrassing thing to talk about, there are simple reasons why you may have it, and simple methods to solve it. That’s why the Boise dentists at Summit Dental Group would like to provide you with the following guide to bad breath.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Poor oral hygiene is the number one cause of bad breath. In fact, not brushing and flossing your teeth and visiting your dentist regularly causes plaque buildup. Left untreated, plaque can calcify and turn into tartar, thus leaving you at risk for tooth decay and gum disease. The solution to this is to care for your teeth properly at home by brushing twice a day, flossing at least once a day, and make regular teeth cleanings and checkups a part of your schedule.
A High Sugar Diet
If you eat a high sugar diet, then you give the bacteria in your mouth the opportunity to thrive. Why? Bacteria feed off the sugars you consume, making your mouth the perfect breeding ground for bad breath. If you don’t want to cut out sweets completely, try limiting your intake and rinsing your mouth out with water or brushing your teeth when you do eat sugar-rich foods.
Heartburn Or Acidic Foods
If you eat or drink acidic foods, it can result in tooth decay or acid reflux, which all contribute to bad breath. If you have bad breath and have acid reflux, you should talk with your doctor about making changes to your diet and adding antacid medications to help manage your symptoms.
Dry Mouth
Dry mouth (also known as Xerostomia) decreases the amount of saliva your mouth produces. For those with dry mouth, bacteria can flourish, resulting in bad breath and gum disease. To prevent dry mouth, talk with your doctor about any medications you may be taking, and drink plenty of water to keep your mouth hydrated. You can also chew sugar-free gum with Xylitol to help produce more saliva.
Cavities Or Infection
Cavities or infections are often caused by overgrown bacteria in the mouth, which can cause bad breath The best way to prevent these issues from developing is to visit your dentist for regular cleanings and checkups. Keep in mind, cavities don’t go away by themselves. While preventative measures are important, existing cavities need to be taken care of by a dental professional.
Health Issues
Many underlying medical conditions such as sinus infections, diabetes, and kidney disease can all cause bad breath. If you have any of these issues, it’s important to talk with your doctor if you can’t seem to get rid of your bad breath.
Contact The Boise Dentists At Summit Dental
When was the last time you visited the Boise dentists at Summit Dental Group? One of the best things you can do to prevent bad breath from developing is visiting our office on a regular basis. Regular dental care will not only ensure healthy teeth and gums but will also keep your mouth clean and keep bad breath away.
If you haven’t made a dental appointment recently, now is the time to schedule one to address any oral health issues you may be having. At Summit Dental Group, our Boise dentists provide personal, professional, and caring services. Contact our downtown Treasure Valley office by filling out our online form or give us a call at (208) 314-2275 today.