Bad Breath

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be a result of:

• poor oral hygiene – bacteria present on your teeth and gums can release bad smelling gases, as can food caught between teeth
• medical problems – a variety of medical conditions such as dry mouth, sinusitis, infections in the throat, nose or lungs, diabetes or liver and kidney problems can all cause halitosis
• lifestyle choices – smoking can also cause halitosis
• your diet – strong foods such as garlic, onions and coffee.
• gum disease  – persistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease

Tips to prevent bad breath

• Ensure good oral hygiene, by brushing your teeth twice a day using a fluoride toothpaste
• Use interdental cleaning aids to clean in between teeth daily
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash
• Limit sugary foods and drinks to meal times
• Limit strong foods such as garlic, onions and coffee
• Chew sugar free gum to prevent your mouth from drying out
• Quit smoking

If you are still experiencing bad breath, book an appointment with your dentist at Maidstone Dental & Implant Centre so that they can further investigate the cause. Depending on the results of these investigations the dentist will be able to advise you on the best course of treatment to ensure that your breath stays minty fresh.