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At one time or another, most of us have been aware, or have been made aware of the fact that our breath may not be as fresh as it could be. It may be the result of something we ate, or it could be from tobacco use, coffee or alcohol. Usually, we can brush our teeth or use some mouthwash and the problem is solved. But if you suffer from chronic bad breath or halitosis, you should have a conversation with your dentist.

 

Aside from your diet and your habits, bad breath can also be caused by oral hygiene issues. If you do not brush or floss on a regular basis, food particles can collect in between your teeth and in other parts of your mouth. Your tongue can collect a great deal of bacteria that can contribute to bad breath. Gum disease can be a source of halitosis as well. Gum disease can be a side effect of dry mouth, and if you aren’t producing enough saliva to clean your mouth, halitosis can be a result. But not all causes of bad breath can be traced back to oral issues. If you are on a diet and not eating enough, you may experience bad breath. If you have issues with your respiratory tract, your sinuses or throat, or are have some diseases of the liver or kidneys, you may have bad breath.

 

To combat bad breath, you should brush your teeth twice a day for two minutes at a time with a fluoride toothpaste, and floss once a day. You should also see your dentist for your regular cleanings and exams. Not only will your dentist be able to clean your teeth, but he can also check your mouth for tooth decay, gum disease and other problems that can contribute to halitosis. You may need to cut back on, or quit tobacco, alcohol or caffeine. If your bad breath is caused by another problem, your dentist may want to consult with your primary care physician. If you are concerned about bad breath, our dentist, Dr. Joel R. Bingham will be happy to see you. To make an appointment at Premier Dental Care in Nampa, Idaho, call 208-466-6161 today.