Saying Goodbye to Bad Breath – Tips For Fresh Breath

There are many things you can do to combat bad breath, and there are even some that are pretty low-maintenance. But before you can do any of them, it’s important to identify the cause.

1. Identify the Cause

In most cases, bad breath (also known as halitosis) is caused by bacteria in your mouth. The bacteria break down food particles, produce waste and produce a sulfur compound that causes the foul smell of your breath.

Certain foods can cause bad breath, such as onions, garlic and spices. Smoking and dry mouth (xerostomia) also contribute to foul breath odors.

If you think you have a problem with bad breath, you can start by keeping a food diary to track the types of foods that are making your breath smell bad. Then, you can try eliminating these foods from your diet temporarily to see if the problem goes away.

Seeing your dentist is another important step in identifying the cause of your bad breath. For those who feel anxious about dental visits, there are ways to overcome your fear of the dentist. Your dentist can look for signs of gum disease, bad oral hygiene habits, and other dental problems that can lead to foul breath.

Your dentist may suggest talking to a medical professional if your bad breath doesn’t improve with regular dental care or if it’s not fading after brushing and flossing. A doctor can help identify if the odor is a symptom of an underlying health issue such as a sinus or respiratory infection, postnasal drip, diabetes, or liver and kidney issues.