Tips to Cure Chronic Bad Breath

Bad breath is something that everyone experiences from time to time. Chronic bad breath, on the other hand, can be much more frustrating to deal with over time. For some people, simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve breath problems, while other cases will require more help from an expert in family dentistry in Houston, TX. Read on to learn more about chronic bad breath, things you can do to treat it, and other health concerns that may be tied in to your bad breath.

What Causes Bad Breath?

In some cases, lifestyle choices like brushing habits or the foods you eat can contribute to bad breath. Foods with strong odors like onions or garlic are common culprits, and even brushing your teeth after the meal won’t help until the food has completely passed through your digestive system. Even non-odorous foods can cause bad breath if trapped between your teeth or in tiny particles on your tongue and left to grow bacteria. Other habits like smoking or chewing tobacco can also contribute to lifestyle-related bad breath.

Underlying Health Issues

In other cases, bad breath can be connected to underlying heath issues. Chronic dry mouth can cause bad breath, as can gum disease or plaque buildup on your teeth. In addition, problems like poorly fitted dental appliances, cavities, mouth infections, or other oral diseases can contribute to or cause bad breath. Also consider if the medications you take could contribute to your bad breath, or if you suffer from respiratory problems like sinus infections, pneumonia, postnasal drip, or even acid reflux. Regular visits to the dentist can help identify many of these common issues and help you figure out a plan for treating both the cause and the resulting bad breath.

Start with the Basics

If you haven’t already, start by minimizing odorous foods in your diet, make sure to floss daily, and brush your teeth at least twice a day. Replace your toothbrush regularly and choose a dentist-approved toothpaste and mouthwash to use. Drink water regularly throughout the day and try sugar-free gum if you have chronic dry mouth.

Other Steps to Try

If improving your oral hygiene habits doesn’t seem to cure the problem, try keeping a log of the foods you eat and how bad your breath is. Noticing a connection between certain foods and worsening breath can help you identify foods to avoid. Make sure to visit your dentist at least twice a year to keep things clean.

Bring in the Big Guns

If you truly have chronic bad breath that won’t be beaten by taking these steps, it’s time to bring in the big guns and get some professional help. Set up an appointment with the experts at Made Ya Smile for a personalized treatment plan to help address any dental needs or concerns you may have.