Causes:
Foods with strong odors such as garlic can be temporarily fought with mouthwash, flossing, and brushing. These odors will not completely go away until the foods are completely digested and out of your system. If you want to keep your breath nice and fresh avoid these foods at all costs.
Poor dental hygiene habits can be a major contributor to bad breath. Lack of flossing and brushing can cause food particles to get stuck in between teeth. This will cause bacteria to start building up, and a foul odor will result. In order to combat this always be sure to brush at least twice daily and floss daily. The occasional use of mouthwash throughout the day can also help to prevent bad breath.
Persistent bad breath, that does not go away with brushing and flossing, may be a sign of periodontal (gum) disease. This is due to plaque building up on teeth. Gum disease occurs after a prolonged period of time without cleaning your teeth. As calculus builds up on your teeth and your gums recede, you can develop chronic inflammation and may experience painful, swollen and bleeding gums. You may even see pus or infection oozing from you gums, experience a foul taste in your mouth or be told you have bad breath. Untreated periodontal disease leads to loss of teeth and has been linked to a number of major medical problems including premature births. Floss, floss, floss!
Dry mouth is also a major contributor to bad breath saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away dead cells. All of these things can build up in the mouth due to the lack of saliva and cause bad breath.
Still not sure what is causing your bad breath, or how to get rid of it? Give us a call! (580)924-3330