Have you ever woken up in the morning and realized you’ve got bad-smelling breath? Do you find that you sometimes have trouble making it go away? For many people, morning breath isn’t just an unfortunate side effect of a good night’s sleep. Chronic bad breath can last throughout the day and leave your friends and loved ones covering their noses. It can be an embarrassing topic for those who suffer from it.

Bad breath can be caused by several different factors, but the most common one is a buildup of bacteria in the mouth.

What Causes Halitosis?

We all know that eating certain foods like garlic and onions causes bad breath, but did you know there are other more serious causes? Some illnesses may also cause bad breath. Some of these illnesses include: pneumonia or bronchitis, chronic sinus infections, postnasal drip, diabetes, chronic acid reflux, liver or kidney problems. Medication can also cause bad breath. Most halitosis is caused by gasses secreted by bacteria in the mouth. If a medicine is causing the problem, then discuss possible alternative medications with your doctor and/or dentist.

Prevent Halitosis

The good news is that you can prevent bad breath by practicing good oral hygiene. Brush three times a day with toothpaste. Also, brush your teeth after you eat. Flossing once a day is recommended by the American Dental Association to avoid plaque buildup. Getting rid of debris like plaque can significantly benefit your oral health, and in turn, the smell of your breath. For more information on oral health, good hygiene habits, or to schedule an appointment with a dentist who can help, call 805-375-2233.