Bad breath, especially when it occurs often, can be embarrassing. We all know that a garlic-packed dinner may cause us to have some stinky breath. You might even wake up with some off-putting morning breath, but chronic bad breath strikes frequently at any time of the day with no prompting of specific foods. Chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by several different and surprising reasons. Once you understand the possible cause of your chronic bad breath, the closer you are to treating it and ending the embarrassing situation.
Crooked Teeth
Crooked teeth create nooks and crannies that are perfect homes for hiding bacteria. Bacteria in your mouth is a big cause of bad breath. The hiding places for bacteria are also great places for leftover food and drink particles to get stuck in. Teeth that are crooked are harder to brush and floss leaving the food, drink, and bacteria around longer to create even worse bad breath. Treating crooked teeth may help with halitosis, as well as prevent potential tooth decay and gum disease risks.
Dry Mouth
Saliva is the mouth rinse produced by your body. Saliva rinses away the harmful bacteria and food and drink particles. When you suffer from dry mouth, your body produces less saliva which causes less bacteria to be rinsed away. While we sleep, the production of saliva slows down, which is why most people wake up with less than fresh breath. Drinking plenty of water or even using special dry mouth rinse can help to clear up halitosis.
Certain Medications
There are over-the-counter and prescription medicine that can have side effects of dry mouth therefore increasing your chances of chronic bad breath.
Skipping Breakfast
Breakfast not only breaks your fast that you have while not eating during your sleep, it also breaks your streak of no water and limited saliva production. Skipping breakfast can be going longer with a dry, sleepy, stinky mouth.
Health Issues
Even something as unassuming as a common cold or sinus infection can lead to smelly breath. Serious issues like diabetes or kidney complications can lead to chronic bad breath. If you notice changes in your breath, it is important to talk to your dentist or doctor.
Your dentist can treat bad breath
Dr. Carmona can help identify and treat the cause of bad breath. To schedule a consultation with Austin Prosthodontics in Austin, TX, call 512-250-9444. We also proudly welcome patients from Cedar Park, Round Rock, Pflugerville, Leander, and all surrounding Texas communities.
