If you are one of the approximately 80 million people who suffer from chronic halitosis, or bad breath, it’s likely that you often feel self-conscious in public. Conversations can be awkward and uncomfortable for you, as can sharing a kiss with a loved one. You may try to hide your bad breath with mints or gum, which help in the short term, but don’t fix the problem at its root. Fortunately, the dentists here at Pointe Dental Group can help you get rid of bad breath once and for all!
Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath is often caused by smoking or eating strong-smelling foods such as garlic or onions. However, bad breath can also have more serious dental or medical causes. During your dental visit, we will check for underlying causes of your halitosis, so you are rid of it for good! Common dental causes of halitosis include cavities, gum disease, a cracked filling, or denture problems. We will also check to see if you might have any underlying physical issues that need to be referred to your physician. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), for example, is a digestive disease that can damage your esophagus and cause bad breath.
Halitosis Treatments
At Pointe Dental Group, we have the expertise to fix any dental issues that may be the cause of your bad breath. In the meantime, here are our top five tips to get rid of bad breath now!
- Brush your Teeth Twice Daily
Let us show you the proper way to brush! We will show you how to brush to get rid of bad breath and also recommend the best toothpaste to remove plaque and food debris.
- Floss Daily
Flossing removes food that toothbrushes can’t reach, which helps to prevent the bacterial buildup that contributes to bad breath. Ask us for a proper flossing demonstration or for a dental pic recommendation.
- Brush or Scrape Your Tongue
The tongue is often overlooked when it comes to oral health care, but it can harbor much of the bacteria that cause bad breath. We’re happy to show you proper tongue cleaning techniques and recommend a reliable brand of over the counter tongue scraper.
- Use Mouth Rinse
Mouth rinses go a long way to help you with emergency breath fresh-ups. However, if your halitosis is caused by an underlying dental problem, rinses will only mask the problem temporarily. Ask us about whether or not a rinse would help you and what brand would be best for your individual situation.
- Stay Hydrated
Dry mouth is one of the most common causes of bad breath. Be sure to drink sufficient amounts of water (six to eight 8-ounce glasses daily) and avoid dehydrating liquids such as coffee and soda. If your mouth is exceptionally dry due to a medical condition, talk to your doctor about over-the-counter saliva substitutes.
If you experience chronic bad breath, there is no need to suffer in silence! Make a dental appointment today to discuss the potential causes of your halitosis and what you can do about it.
Want to Get Rid of Bad Breath? Contact Us
Have a question about chronic halitosis? Pointe Dental Group is here to help! Contact us at either of our convenient locations:
Grosse Pointe Farms
18342 Mack Avenue
Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236
(313) 881-2480
Shelby Township
50505 Schoenherr Rd # 170
Shelby Township, MI 48315
(586) 803-8300
Services:
Dental Services
Orthodontics
Sleep Apnea
Periodontics
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