Halitosis (Bad Breath) Specialist

What causes halitosis?

Halitosis or bad breath can be caused by many factors. Some of the most common include:

• foods that produce a film that clings to the mouth and airways or provides a food source for bacteria
  
• alcohol that causes the mouth to dry out
  
• medications that reduce saliva production (saliva is important for washing away bacteria and food particles)
  
• respiratory infections, which cause a buildup of germs and mucus as well as inflammation
  
• breathing through the mouth, which can cause the mouth to dry out so saliva can't work to remove bacteria and food particles
  
• untreated tooth decay, gum disease or abscesses
  

What steps can I take to treat my bad breath?

The best way to treat bad breath is with regular brushing and flossing and regular dental visits to prevent decay and gum disease that are primary causes of halitosis. Chewing sugar-free gum and making sure you get plenty of water throughout the day can also help by promoting the production of saliva. When bad breath is caused by decay or gum disease, having these issues corrected often puts an end to the bad breath problem.

Generally speaking, when bad breath persists despite good dental hygiene including regular brushing and flossing in the morning, before bed, and after meals and regular use of mouthwash doesn't help keep breath fresh, you should consider making an appointment to check for underlying causes such as deep-seated infections that could be causing your symptoms. Be sure to bring a list of all your medications so the dentists at Westwood Dental Arts Center can determine if one of those medications might be causing bad breath or mouth dryness.