Everyone gets a case of bad breath from time to time, but did you know it can actually be a sign of a more serious issue? While bad breath can be simply covered with mints, gum, and mouthwash, finding the cause of foul breath can be quite important. There are a number of conditions that promote bad breath. Some may point toward a lack of dental hygiene, while others may be a sign of a medical condition. Whichever the case, bad breath should be closely monitored.
Often times, foul breath is the result of an underlying dental issue. Here at Quality Dental Care in Omaha, we know how serious bad breath can be, and we’d like to share that knowledge with our patients. From known causes to common symptoms, we’ll fill you in on what you should know about bad breath.
Potential Causes
From medical conditions to oral health issues, there are many causes of bad breath. Aside from the foods you eat, most of these causes can be quite serious. Bad breath that results from medical conditions should be addressed by a physician, but causes like the ones to follow can be assessed here at our office by Dr. Erich Trumm. Take a look at the numerous causes below:
- Using tobacco products
- Gum disease (gingivitis)
- Tooth decay
- Dry mouth
- Food debris
How You Can Prevent Bad Breath
If you already suffer from regular bad breath, we recommend consulting Dr. Trumm to check for any underlying issues. Otherwise, there are plenty of ways you can prevent bad breath and promote optimal oral health. The first step in avoiding foul breath is maintaining a thorough oral hygiene routine. Every patient should brush and floss their teeth twice a day. Brushing after meals is also a good idea. Additionally, you can follow some tips below:
- Rinse regularly with mouthwash
- Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria
- Chew sugarless gum
- Stay hydrated
Fight Bad Breath with Quality Dental Care
In addition to following the advice above, it’s important that every patient visits us in Omaha for regular checkups and dental cleanings from Dr. Trumm. If bad breath is a factor, he’ll assess your mouth and determine the cause.
Don’t ignore bad breath and contact us today! You can call us at 402.431.8844. We are happy to help!