Bad breath can be caused by a great array of factors, some on their own, and a mix of the different causes.
Commonly it is caused by,
- different foods that we eat, such as onions and garlic.
- Smoking and alcohol.
- From your stomach or digestive system
- Dry mouth caused by stress, dehydration, medications, smoking and drinking.
- Bad dental health, gum disease, poorly cleaned dental appliances / dentures.
- Plaque, badly cleaned teeth
- Yeast infections
- Diabetes
- Sinus infections/ pneumonia/ bronchitis/ post nasal drip
- Mouth, nose and throat conditions
- Acid reflux
There are many causes, so it can be a process of elimination to determine the cause.
Bad Breath can have a huge impact on a patient’s lifestyle, and can cause anxiety and lowered self-esteem.
When you ask this question, a dentist will follow it up with a number of questions to work out why you may have bad breath, and the prevention options
Questions such as
- When and how long have you had it?
- How do you clean your teeth / dentures / dental appliances?
- Do you Floss?
- What is your medical history?
- What medications and supplements are you taking?
- Do you have any health conditions?
- Are you a mouth breather, and do you snore while asleep?
- Do you have any allergies or sinus issues?
From here the dentist will examine your mouth, to form a diagnosis and a treatment plan that best suits you.