Why Do You Have Bad Breath?
If your date didn’t call you back, it’s probably because you have bad breath. Bad breath is such a deal-breaker. Trust us, dental offices in Port St. Lucie receive numerous calls from patients who are desperate to seek treatment for bad breath.
Bad breath may seem harmless, but it can affect your self-esteem and relationships with other people. Bad breath or halitosis is embarrassing, and if you are aware of it, it may even cause anxiety. What factors contribute to foul-smelling breath?
Does Your Breath Smell?
What Causes Bad Breath?
Several factors contribute to bad breath. The following are some of the possible reasons why your breath smells terrible:
#1 Food
When you eat, food particles can lodge around your teeth. This will cause bacteria to multiply and reek unpleasant odor. In addition, certain foods cause bad breath, like spices, herbs, garlic, and onions.
#2 Smoking
Smoking and chewing tobacco are linked to the development of gum disease. Gum disease is another source of bad breath.
#3 Poor Oral Hygiene
Ideally, you should brush your teeth twice a day and floss once daily before bed. If you don’t practice good oral hygiene, plaque will form on your teeth and along the gum line. Eventually, plaque will harden and calcify into tartar. Tartar is hard to remove, and it can irritate and inflame your gums resulting in gum disease. As mentioned, gum disease is a major contributor to bad breath.
When Should You See a Dentist?
If you think you have bad breath, recall what you ate during the day. You may also assess your oral care habits. Are you brushing daily? Do you visit your dentist twice a year for routine teeth cleanings?
Sometimes lifestyle changes can help improve the smell of your breath. However, if bad breath continues to be an issue despite changing your habits and lifestyle, you need to visit your dentist to have it checked.
Are You Looking for Dental Offices in Port St. Lucie?
If the smell of your breath bothers you, we can help trace the cause. At Ricard Family Dentistry, we are committed to giving you the best possible dental care with our customizable and affordable array of dental treatments. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to give us a call to learn more about what we have to offer.