What to do about bad breath

If you have bad breath, you’re not alone. Studies show that 50% of adults have bad breath at some point in their lives. Knowing what to do about it can help you avoid having this condition at the wrong times, such as when on a date or speaking to friends. 

Causes of Bad Breath

The best way to prevent bad breath is to avoid the causes of it. The following are the causes and ways to fight bad breath. 

Bacteria

Bad breath-causing bacteria can live in the mouth because it’s the perfect place for it to thrive. The mouth is dark, warm, and moist. When you eat something, the bacteria feed on the food, and that causes stinky breath. 

The best way to make sure bad breath bacteria stays at a minimum is to brush and floss at least twice a day. You should also see Dr. Roy Thompson, a Murfreesboro dentist, every six months for professional cleaning.

Dry Mouth

Saliva cleans out the mouth, so when someone doesn’t have enough of it, the mouth starts to smell bad. Dry mouth can be due to medications, salivary gland problems or breathing through the mouth. 

Speak to your primary care physician if you believe medications are the cause of your bad breath. An ENT doctor can help with salivary gland problems. 

Gum Disease

People who have bad breath regularly and have a bad taste in their mouth may be suffering from gum disease. This oral health issue is caused by plaque, which causes cavities. 

Schedule an appointment with Roy Thompson, DDS – Comprehensive Family Dentistry in Mursfreeboro if you believe gum disease could be the reason for your bad breath. Treatment is available and the sooner you treat it, the better. Untreated gum disease can lead to serious dental issues that could require oral surgery.

Smoking and Tobacco

Smoking doesn’t only stain your teeth and increases your risk for serious health issues, it can also cause bad breath. Most smokers do not know they have bad breath because tobacco can affect their sense of smell. 

If you’re not able to quit smoking, be sure to take extra good care of your teeth. If possible, brush your teeth after smoking and visit your dentist regularly for checkups.

Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can cause bad breath, such as sinusitis, gastric reflux, diabetes, liver or kidney disease. 

Start with a dental appointment in Murfreesboro with Dr. Ray Thompson. If there is no sign of an oral infection, the next step is to speak with your primary care physician to see if there is a medical condition causing the bad breath.

Schedule an Appointment with a Murfreesboro Dentist

Dr. Roy Thompson has been practicing general dentistry since 1978 and has developed a reputation for the comprehensive level of care he provides to his patients. Together with his staff, they build life-long, quality relationships with patients to ensure they receive the best quality dental care for a lifetime of good oral health. 

If you’re suffering from bad breath, dental issues, or require preventative dental services, contact our Murfreesboro dental office now at 615-896-1330.