Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria, and all of them can emit foul odors. Bad breath is a very common dental issue, and if it only occurs occasionally or when you first wake up in the morning, then it’s not generally a cause for concern. If your bad breath is persistent, it’s time to see your dentist. He or she can recommend effective treatment options for you, based on what’s causing the problem.
Poor Oral Hygiene
This is one of the most common causes of bad breath, also called halitosis. You can get halitosis even if you brush your teeth twice daily. It’s possible that you’re inadvertently missing areas. Try to brush one quadrant of your mouth at a time for at least 30 seconds before moving on to the next area. Flossing every day is a must, as a toothbrush can’t reach between the teeth.
Oral Infections
There are different types of infections that can affect your mouth and cause halitosis. One of them is gum disease, also called periodontal disease. It starts as gingivitis, which is the inflammation of the gum tissue. In addition to bad breath, you might notice that your gums bleed a little when you brush or floss. Gum disease won’t go away on its own. You’ll need to see a dentist for specialized care. Another type of oral infection is a dental abscess . This can cause intense, throbbing pain, pus, and sensitivity, and it warrants an immediate visit to the dental office.
Dry Mouth
Your salivary glands are located inside your mouth. The saliva they produce helps your mouth stay clean by washing away food debris, dead cells, and bacteria. If you have dry mouth, or xerostomia, then you’re more likely to have bad breath because these odor-causing bacteria and food particles will more readily cling to your mouth. Your dentist might recommend products designed to manage dry mouth.
For all of your oral health concerns, you can put your trust in the caring team at Glenwood Premier Dental . In addition to preventive care, we offer gum disease treatment and oral cancer screenings. If you’re looking for bad breath treatment and live near Hazlet, give us a call today at (732) 264-4477.