Written By Dr. Kyle Griffith
Bad breath has many causes. It can sometimes be difficult to tell if bad breath is caused by something simple or may be something more insidious.
Easy things first:
What are some of the most common causes of bad breath? Dry mouth and dehydration are one of the leading causes of bad breath. The solution is easy; stay hydrated! This simple recommendation takes care of most patients’ complaints of bad breath. Second, is inadequate oral hygiene. Make sure that you are brushing and flossing consistently and effectively. In addition to routine oral hygiene, use your toothbrush to scrub the surface of your tongue. Your tongue has the ability to trap bacteria and food debris that can build up and cause bad breath. Third, watch what you are consuming. Coffee, garlic, turmeric, smoking, etc., all cause bad breath. Remember, the term “coffee breath” was coined for a reason.
Here are the reasons for bad breath that most people overlook:
Stomach Problems: Acid reflux and certain stomach disorders can cause bad breath. Sometimes bad breath is the only indication of a more serious problem further down the digestive tract. Consult with your GI specialist to rule out stomach problems.
Severe Oral Infections: Infections in the gums or infections from teeth can cause bad breath. You would think that there would be pain associated with infections in the mouth but in many cases, patients have no discomfort. When these serious infections are resolved, the bad breath goes away. Consult with your dentist if you are concerned about infections in your mouth.
Tonsilliths, a.k.a. “Throat Stones”: If you still have your tonsils, this could be the source of your bad breath. In some people, the tonsils trap food, bacteria, and dead cells. This debris can build up and form “throat stones.” These stones are not really stones. They are soft, smooth, and yellow in appearance. They can range in size from a couple of millimeters to a centimeter in diameter. If you happen to capture one between your fingers and smash it, it emits a putrid smell. If you have chronic sore throats, several episodes of strep throat per year, or have an abundance of throat stones, consult with your ENT specialist about removing your tonsils.
If you have bad breath that you can’t quite fix with these easy solutions, contact 58 Dental. We’ll be able to help you figure out if you have a more serious issue that is leading to your bad breath. Stop living with the worry and embarrassment of bad breath and talk with a 58 Dental team member today.
