The Truth about Your Bad Breath

Do you remember the last time you woke up with bad breath? Was it the morning after a garlicky pasta dinner? Or maybe you had too much fun out with friends and woke up smelling like hot garbage. Bad breath is a common problem; but when do you know if it’s problematic enough to talk to Fuquay Family Dentistry about your bad breath? Today we will explore the reasons a quarter of the population suffers from this pathology:

• Symptoms of bad breath
• Causes of bad breath (there are more than you might think!)
• Remedies for bad breath
• When to see your doctor or dentist for bad breath

Symptoms of bad breath

Bad breath can be a sign that something is off in your body. While strong-smelling foods can be the culprit, bad breath from food typically resolves with proper dental hygiene. The indications of bad breath vary. For some, having bad breath can make them anxious or embarrassed. For others, it is clear they have bad breath from other people’s reactions. Either way, having bad breath is socially uncomfortable. 

Causes of bad breath

Bad breath can be a signal from your body that something isn’t right. Outside of food and tobacco use, other reasons your breath may smell include:

Oral disease

Gum disease, tooth decay, sores, or surgical wounds can contribute to bad breath. If there’s a bacterial infection in the mouth, it can create an unpleasant odor. There is a term used to describe the smell of someone’s breath who has untreated periodontal disease: perio breath. It’s described as smelling like something is rotting… not pleasant.   

Treatment

If you have bad breath because of periodontal disease or an infection in your mouth — call Fuquay Family Dentistry right away. 

They will recommend periodontal therapy, prescription oral rinses, or antibiotics. Don’t wait to go from bad to worse and get in as soon as you can. 

Ear nose and throat issues

Sometimes your bad breath can be a sign of problems with your ears, nose or throat. If you suffer from postnasal drip or chronic infections or inflammation it can affect your breath. You may also notice small white ‘stones’ lodged in your tonsils, these are a collection of bacteria and dead cells that get caught in the crevices of your tonsils. Medically known as tonsilloliths they are typically harmless but can make your breath smell putrid. 

Treatment 

You should seek medical advice for any ear, nose or throat inflammation or infection that is recurring or does not resolve itself. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics. For tonsil stones, removing them and upping your hygiene game can go a long way. But, if you’re worried, schedule an appointment with Fuquay Family Dentistry.

Gastrointestinal issues

Gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD can be another bad breath causing the problem. People who suffer from GERD experience stomach acid coming up into the esophagus. It can cause burning and bad breath. 

Treatment 

For gastrointestinal issues, connect with your medical provider. Your dentist can help with oral treatments to mitigate odor, but your medical doctor will treat your underlying issue. 

Making a bad thing worse… smoking 

Tobacco use is notorious for being foul-smelling. But it isn’t just the residual smell on clothes and hands that smells bad. Smoking can cause a dry mouth that makes your breath smell even worse! Gum, mints, and sprays are hard-pressed to make any significant improvements. 

Treatment

The best treatment is to quit using tobacco products. Speak to your doctor about patches, or gum or medication that may help with your addiction. If you are trying to quit but aren’t there yet — make sure you are keeping up with your oral hygiene. Brush after smoking and rinse or use a mouth spray to help with saliva production. 

Bad breath can be a real bummer. Some causes and treatments are more minor than others. If you need help to figure out why you have bad breath, come in and see Fuquay Family Dentistry today.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.