Did you know that 2.4% of Australians say they suffer from halitosis (the medical term for bad breath)?
You might think your dentist can’t help you with this condition, or you may be too embarrassed to ask – but if you consider that at least 2.4% of us have the condition, imagine how frequently your dentist has come across the issue – they won’t blink an eye.
What are the symptoms of halitosis (bad breath)?
Aside from the obvious, you may also experience a dry mouth, thickened saliva, and a bad taste in your mouth. Halitosis is often a symptom itself of other oral health problems, which is why it’s so important to see a dentist rather than suffering through the condition. And, best of all, bad breath is preventable and treatable, with the right advice.
How do you get bad breath?
Bad breath can be caused by pungent foods, drinking certain beverages or smoking. These are normal and easily remedied by a good brushing of your teeth. When does normal bad breath becomes halitosis? Halitosis is actually when your bad breath is caused by bacteria living on your tongue and mouth. Associated medical conditions that might be causing your bad breath include:
–sinusitis
–dry mouth
–poor oral health
–kidney failure
–acid and bile reflux
How do you treat bad breath? Seeing an affordable dentist Brisbane area for help
Firstly, the cause of your bad breath needs to be isolated, and then this cause is treated.
There could be a few factors contributing towards your poor breath, which is why it’s best to speak to your dentist. Basic preventative measures you can take at home include:
Clean your tongue. Often the bacteria causing bad breath is located primarily on your tongue. Your dentist will recommend a tongue brush or scraper
Lifestyle changes. If it’s what you eat, drink, or even smoke, that is causing your bad breath, try avoiding these items unless you can brush your teeth afterwards. If you are on the go and have consumed something you know will cause poor breath, try to gargle a glass of water to flush the mouth clean and reduce any odour, until you can brush your teeth and clean your tongue. If you are a smoker, the same steps can be followed – but it would be remiss of any medical professional to remind you that quitting smoking will not just improve your breath – it will also reduce your risk of a lot of health problems, including oral diseases
Get your oral hygiene game going strong
If poor oral hygiene is a factor to your bad breath, let’s go back to basics with a recommended oral hygiene plan, including:
-brushing your teeth at least twice a day
-flossing once per day
-using mouthwash when prescribed by a dentist
-brushing your tongue
Don’t forget your regular check-ups with an affordable Wavell Heights dentist.
Stay hydrated
A dry mouth might be causing your bad breath. In addition, water will help to dislodge any particles of food and bacteria in the mouth. Drink plenty of water each day, and don’t forget that most local water supplies also contain fluoride, which has many benefits to your oral health.
Visit your dentist
Don’t forget your regular dental check-ups, these can be between every 6 and 24 months, as recommended by your dentist. This is a great opportunity to discuss your concern with bad breath, and finally get to the bottom of what can be an embarrassing condition.
Looking for an affordable dentist Brisbane area for a general check up or consultation about bad breath? Don’t be shy, you can contact us online and book a time in today.
