We have all seen the commercials. They feature someone covering their mouth, popping a mint or chewing gum. The actors may even rinse their mouths with a mouthwash. It is all to avoid that social problem – bad breath.
However, not all bad breath is the same. Everyone gets it from time-to-time. This type of bad breath may be what we call “morning breath.” It comes and then disappears after we brush our teeth. Yet, there is a more serious type of bad breath. It comes back and refuses to go away. This is chronic bad breath
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath can be the result of something you ate. It can be because you smoke or drank something. It may also be caused by certain medications you take. It may simply be something you experience upon waking after a night out. Common foods and substances associated with the formation of bad breath are:
- Garlic and onions
- Tobacco
- Spices
By changing your diet, eliminating certain food and drink or adopting good oral hygiene you may be able to get rid of bad breath. However, not all types of bad breath are easily gotten rid of. This is certainly the case with chronic bad breath.
What Causes Chronic Bad Breath?
Chronic bad breath, sometimes called halitosis, is identified by its persistence. It stays, creating a constant bad taste in your mouth. When you eat certain foods or drink certain beverages, the taste may actually worsen. If you are suffering from consistent or chronic bad breath, chances are high the cause is not something you ate or drank the night or day before.
Some medical issues such as diabetes and liver disease can result in bad breath of various degrees. While the resulting medical condition known as dry mouth can cause this problem, it is not the major culprit. In general, when you have indications of chronic bad breath, your mouth is letting you know you may have serious cavities or, more common, gum (periodontal) disease.
Poor dental hygiene is the leading cause behind gum disease. Failure to brush your teeth and floss at least twice a day results in build-up of (bacteria) plaque on your teeth. Bacteria forms in a thin layer and releases toxins while irritating your gums. The result is chronic bad breath. Bacteria can also become trapped in dentures. The result is the same odor production common to bad breath.
Bad breath, whether chronic or not, is embarrassing. It is not something you are always aware of or want to talk about it. People near you do not want to let you know about it. If you believe you suffer from chronic bad breath or are simply worried about the condition and care of your teeth, take the time to talk to the best professional dentists in our New York City facility.