What Your Chronic Bad Breath May Be Trying to Tell You

Many of our patients could improve their dental health in some way, whether by brushing better or visiting the dentist more often. Failing to keep your mouth clean creates the perfect environment for bacteria, which leads to bad breath and gum disease. 

If you’ve noticed odor, inflammation, or discoloration, it’s likely time for a cleaning. 

At Bayside Dental Arts, Andrey Ilyabayev, DDS, and our team provide solutions for the issues behind breath, notably gum disease care, and can advise you on future gum health.  

What causes bad breath 

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be an embarrassing problem. You might hesitate to lean close or talk to anyone directly, relying on gum and breath mints to mask the smell. These things, along with toothpaste and mouthwash, might only work for a brief time, if at all. 

A few different issues can cause halitosis. The severity and scent of your breath might vary depending on what’s to blame. 

Poor dental hygiene is the most common cause of bad breath. Your mouth is rife with opportunistic bacteria that multiply if you let them. And if left to flourish, bacteria cause odors and even increase your risk of infection and cavities. The problem only worsens as gum disease sets in. 

Smoking and other tobacco products are another common cause of bad breath. Along with clinging to your teeth and breath, cigarettes and chewing tobacco contribute to tooth decay. Even the most thorough brushing and flossing only delays the inevitable. 

Certain foods can cause bad breath, too, even if you brush after eating. Food broken down in your mouth enters your bloodstream, scenting the air you exhale. This is most noticeable with garlic, onion, cured meats, alcohol, and certain spices. 

Improving your dental health 

Halitosis that’s the result of your diet or tobacco has a straightforward solution. Simply limit or avoid the things that make your breath stink, and your breath will gradually smell better as they leave your system. 

You can speed up this process and help your breath smell better by improving your dental health. This involves more than just brushing and flossing, though proper technique is necessary. 

Many of our patients brush improperly and skip flossing entirely, which cuts their oral hygiene routine off at the knees. It’s important to brush thoroughly, using small circles to dislodge debris from all angles. Then floss to catch anything between your teeth. 

Mouthwash provides a finishing touch, disinfecting your mouth and scenting your breath. If you wear dentures, clear aligners, or other oral appliances, clean and disinfect them as well. 

Taking care of your teeth at home is only the beginning. There are areas of your mouth that are difficult to reach, so you need professional cleanings to remove plaque buildup, which contributes to bad breath. 

Regular visits to a dentist are also important in cases involving gingivitis and periodontal disease, as these conditions can easily worsen and lead to tooth loss if left untreated. 

Does your breath smell? Schedule a consultation and cleaning by calling Bayside Dental Arts at 315-908-0804, or book an appointment online. We’re located in Bayside, Queens, in New York.