Fresh Breath for those Mistletoe Moments
Bad breath is very common. It can last a short time or can be a chronic problem – lasting for days or months (or even longer).
What Causes Bad Breath
Several things can cause bad breath, like conditions in your mouth, illness in other parts of your body, medications or certain foods and drinks.
Conditions In You Mouth
Most of the time, chronic bad breath is caused by something in your mouth. Some of these conditions are common, such as:
- deep cavities
- dry mouth
- coating of food and bacteria on the back of the tongue
- severe gum disease
Illness in Other Parts of Your Body
Bad breath can be a sign of illness involving other parts of your body. For example, bacteria associated with bad breath can grow in the nose, sinuses, or tonsils when those tissues are swollen, such as when you have an infection or allergic reaction. Sometimes debris can collect and harden in the folds of the tonsils, forming tonsil stones that can cause bad breath. Conditions that affect the digestive system, like gastric reflux or ulcers, also can cause bad breath. Other illnesses that can affect breath odor include diabetes and liver or kidney failure.
Medications
Some people develop bad breath while taking certain medications. Medications that might affect breath odor include acetaminophen and some allergy medicines and chemotherapy treatments.
Certain Foods and Drinks
Certain foods and drinks can trigger temporary bouts of bad breath. Some of the most well known are garlic, onions, and fish, including tuna. Coffee and alcoholic beverages can dry your mouth, which can also contribute to breath that smells bad.
Controlling Bad Breath
Since most bad breath starts in the mouth, good oral care is a smart first step to controlling breath odor.
To help keep your mouth clean:
- brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste
- clean between your teeth daily
Over-the-counter mouthrinse can help freshen breath.
Pay attention to what you eat and drink. Avoid foods like garlic and onions and limit your consumption of coffee and alcoholic beverages. Drink plenty of water or use sugar-free candies or gum to keep your mouth moist.
Talk to your dentist if you are concerned about your breath. He or she can help keep your mouth clean and healthy, which may solve the problem. If your breath is still a concern, you might consider speaking to your medical doctor.
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