Do you suffer from chronic bad breath? Haltiosis, or bad breath, is a common dental concern that affects many patients. Dr. Karim Naguib and his professional dental team can help you treat bad breath in Lancaster and Palmdale, CA. Routine dental cleanings and exams help Dr. Naguib find the source of your bad breath. We welcome you to learn more about the common causes of halitosis and how we can maintain your dental health in our offices.
Causes of Bad Breath
There are multiple common causes of halitosis. Ranging from the stomach to diet and teeth problems, they include:
- Bacterial buildup on the tongue
- Cavities
- Gum disease
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Food in tooth extraction sites during healing
- Dentures (when not cleaned properly)
Several non-dental reasons can cause bad breath:
- Sore throat
- Tonsillitis
- Infection of air passages
One of the most common causes of short-term halitosis is diet. Eating foods like onions or garlic can create bad breath. Additionally, if you do not brush and floss thoroughly, harmful bacteria can build on the teeth, gums, and tongue. Brushing your tongue after brushing your teeth and gums can help reduce bad-smelling bacteria from the mouth.
Alcohol and tobacco use can also lead to bad breath. When you have alcohol, your body converts it into acetic acid, which smells like vinegar. Alcohol can also lead to dry mouth, which increases the odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. Tobacco can not only create bad breath but can turn teeth yellow and increase the risk of gum disease.
If you’ve noticed that you suffer from bad breath and think there may be a dental cause, contact our offices. Call Premier Dental Care’s Lancaster office at (661) 948-6700 or the Palmdale office at (661) 273-6565.
We must examine your smile and account for your symptoms to determine the best treatment. We’ll talk to you about your medical history and any medications you currently take. Our office will also do a thorough oral exam to determine if the cause is a dental issue. We can detect even the most minor cavities and other causes of halitosis using dental technology.
Treating Bad Breath in Lancaster and Palmdale, CA
The first step to combatting bad breath is usually a dental check-up. Dr. Naguib or a member of his dental team will find the source of your problem after an exam.
Mouthwashes or mints only temporarily mask foul odors. Sometimes, they can worsen the situation. Mouthwashes that contain alcohol cause dry mouth and usually worsen bad breath. Some of the best ways to prevent bad breath include following a good oral hygiene routine and receiving regular dental check-ups.
Dr. Naguib and his dental team offer dental cleanings to ensure your teeth and gums stay healthy. These cleanings remove bacteria from the mouth.
There are also several tips to help you get fresher breath and a healthier smile:
- Brush your tongue
- Floss at least once a day
- Clean dental appliances
- Replace your toothbrush every three months
- Adjust your diet
- Quit smoking and tobacco use
These tips can also help prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and other serious dental problems. Remember to schedule dental appointments every six months. Dental cleanings will help keep your breath fresh and reverse dental symptoms early.
Bad Breath FAQs
Learn more about halitosis with answers to these commonly asked questions:
Is bad breath a sign of other health problems?
Bad breath can be a sign of health problems. It can be a sign of a sinus or respiratory infection. Bad breath can also signify more severe conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.
How can you naturally get rid of bad breath?
If you struggle with bad breath, you can try to get rid of it naturally and at home. The most effective way to get rid of it naturally is to brush and floss your teeth more often. Using mouthwash, avoiding smoking, and stopping tobacco use also may help control your bad breath.
Is chronic bad breath reversible?
Patients with bad breath can usually stop it with a better oral care routine and a different diet. Sometimes, a medical condition can create bad smells. In these cases, patients must treat the condition first.
Is bad breath contagious?
You can’t spread bad breath to another person. Bad breath can’t spread from one person to another unless oral bacteria is the cause. You can spread harmful bacteria that cause halitosis to another person by kissing or sharing drinks and utensils. The other person may not develop poor breath but may encounter problems from harmful bacteria.
What are the possible causes of bad breath?
The leading causes of bad breath include poor oral care, gum disease, diet, and smoking. Call our office to schedule an appointment if you suffer from bad breath. We can determine where your halitosis is coming from and how to help treat the issue.
Can dehydration cause bad breath?
Dehydration can cause a lack of saliva, which may lead to bad breath. Saliva is essential because it helps wash away food debris and bacteria from the mouth. The lack of saliva allows bacteria to stay in the mouth. Harmful bacteria can grow and cause halitosis.
If you suffer from bad breath, dehydration may be the root cause of your issue. In that case, ensure you drink enough water and eat food high in water content. Swap out sodas and juices for water to help increase saliva production. If this does not work, contact our office for an examination.
Get a Dental Exam Today
Treat bad odors with professional dental treatment. If you need a dental check-up, call our office closest to you. Contact the Lancaster, CA dentist office at (661) 948-6700 or schedule a dental visit to our Lancaster dentist office online. Call our Palmdale, CA, dentist office at (661) 273-6565 or schedule a visit to our Palmdale dentist office online.
Dr. Naguib and his professional staff aim to provide the most comfortable care possible in their Lancaster and Palmdale offices. Ask our staff if you have any questions about check-ups or scheduling appointments. They will be happy to help.