“People Often Laugh At Bad Breath, But It’s A Serious Problem And Can Lead To Social Isolation”
Bad breath is something we all worry about and sometimes those concerns get out of hand. If you’re aware of your bad breath and doing what you can about it, it may not be as bad as you think. The worst bad breath is usually found in people who neither know nor care, and neglect important factors and causes such as poor dental hygiene.
Ask a trusted friend or close relative for their opinion – do they think you have a problem?
Causes and risk factors
The bad smell is usually caused by chemical molecules containing sulphur. bacteria that live in the mouth produce these. Some illnesses can also cause bad breath, such as kidney or liver failure but if you’re otherwise well it’s unlikely these are causing your problem. If you’re worried, though, check with your GP.
- Tooth decay and gum disease – the main causes of bad breath. Make sure you have regular dental check-ups and see a dental hygienist. Brush your teeth twice a day and after meals with a toothpaste, and try using a mouthwash. Look for mouthwashes that combine oil and water components, which may be more effective because bacteria and sulphide compounds are more easily dissolved in oil than water.
- Smoking – this is one of the most common causes of bad breath, especially because it can lead to gum disease. Stop smoking if possible.
- Diet – many types of food can cause your breath and sweat to smell unpleasant. Garlic is the best-known culprit, but strong spices (especially cumin) and herbs can also cause a problem. Try changing the types of food you eat.
- Dry mouth – this can be caused by general illness, medicines and simply not drinking enough. Drink plenty of fluids to wash through your mouth, and increase saliva flow by chewing sugar-free gum. Saliva helps to neutralise the acids produced by bacteria and helps to prevent tooth decay.
Our Special Offers
At Simply Smiles Dental in Toorak, our goal is to make quality dental care affordable. We encourage you to take advantage of our latest offers. To find out more, visit our special offers page or contact us now on (03) 9826 2220 or make an appointment online.