Why Does My Breath Smell?

February 1, 2023 - Digital Resource Blogger

Bad breath is often caused by your garlicky lunch or other food and beverage you consume. However, it may also be because of some serious issues requiring tooth extractions in Santa Clara. Bad breath that is severe or persistent can negatively affect your social life and self-esteem, or it may even indicate more serious oral health problems.

In many cases, improving your dental hygiene practice will be sufficient to eliminate extra plaque and germs that cause bad odors. However, occasionally dental care from a professional may be necessary.

Causes and Treatment of Bad Breath

What Causes Bad Breath?

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, could be brought on by various factors, most of which originate in the mouth. Here are just a few possible causes of persistent bad breath:

• Poor dental health (i.e., brushing and flossing)
• Plaque and tartar accumulation on the teeth
• Periodontitis or gingivitis
• Dental decay (cavities)
• Dental abscess or infection
• Missing dental implants
• Dry socket

A dry mouth can be exacerbated by alcohol, smoking, certain medications, and even constantly breathing through your mouth. In these circumstances, a lack of saliva results in a weakened natural defense of your body against dirt and bacteria. To prevent them from damaging your teeth and producing odors, saliva automatically transports these substances out of your mouth.

Of course, numerous physical conditions can potentially affect your breath, especially stomach disorders or infections around the airways (nose, throat, lungs, and sinuses). Finally, lifestyle factors like eating, stress, or hormone changes can also cause halitosis.

Signs You Have Persistent Bad Breath

An unusually stinky or reeking smell is, of course, the most visible sign of halitosis. It’s critical to differentiate between bad breath and the aroma of your most recent meal or cup of coffee. While coffee, garlic, or seafood may make your breath a little odorous, there is no need to be alarmed.

You should instead be alarmed if you smell the following odors on your breath:

• Metallic smell
• Sulfuric smell (like rotten eggs)
• Fungus or moldy odors

Halitosis can be distinguished from other odors by its persistent odors. It won’t just disappear with time, brushing, or chewing a gum. Additionally, you will observe a distinct or nasty taste in your mouth or see signs of bleeding or swollen gums. A toothache may also be accompanied by bad breath.

At-Home Treatments for Bad Breath

If someone tells you that you have halitosis, you should first fix your dental hygiene practice. You should brush your teeth twice and floss at least once each day. These dental practices shouldn’t be superficial; teeth should be properly brushed and flossed to get rid of bacteria and other debris.

Use a soft-bristled brush and a pea-sized drop of fluoride toothpaste to ensure you’re brushing your teeth properly. Brush your mouth slowly and in little circular strokes. Be sure to brush your teeth’s fronts, backs, and biting surfaces.

Brushing your tongue can also help eliminate odors because many bacteria can build up there. You can also use mouthwash, but this is not a replacement for regular dental care. The best treatment for halitosis is a comprehensive dental health regimen.

A home remedy is probably not an option if halitosis persists despite a diligent oral hygiene regimen. Make an appointment with your dentist instead so you can be assisted in identifying and treating the problem.

Visit Dr. Jayne Dentistry for Tooth Extractions in Santa Clara

There’s a strong probability that you know it is time to see a dentist if you are dealing with persistent or severe halitosis. If brushing and breath mints are ineffective in treating your bad breath, you should consult a dentist because you may have to extract your tooth. Call us!