Dental Associates of Delaware is dedicated to helping all ages achieve and maintain optimal oral health with offices in Brandywine, Hockessin, Middletown, Wilmington, Millsboro, or Ocean View, Delaware. We are dedicated not only to providing quality care and treatments, but also educating our patients on various topics regarding oral health. One mysterious topic that should be discussed is bad breath. Learn more about what causes bad breath below.
What Causes Bad Breath
There is no single answer to the question: What causes bad breath? Common oral problems can definitely cause bad breath. Advanced gum disease is one of the biggest culprits of bad breath. Bacteria gathers in pockets around your teeth and then releases unpleasant odors.
Beyond common oral problems, other causers of bad breath include:
- Illnesses (i.e. diabetes, tuberculosis, kidney or liver disorders & others)
- Certain foods
- Poor oral care
Foods Can Lead To Bad Breath
Eating food is essential for your overall health. However, certain foods can lead to bad breath. Some of these foods include:
- Onions
- Coffee
- Alcohol
- Garlic & more
If you choose to eat foods that can lead to bad breath make sure that you brush your teeth and tongue and rinse out your mouth after eating. If you can’t brush your teeth or rinse your mouth out right away, pop in a sugar free mint or chew sugar free dentist approved gum to help freshen your breath.
How To Avoid Bad Breath
If the reason you have bad breath is because of a common oral problem, then bad breath can be avoided if you practice proper oral care. It is important to brush your teeth multiple times a day and floss often. Along with that, it is also important to brush your tongue daily and rinse your mouth with anti-gingivitis mouth rinses to get rid of food particles and remove bacteria.
If you are experiencing bad breath even after practicing proper oral hygiene, contact us at our Brandywine office, Hockessin office, Middletown office, Wilmington office, Millsboro office, or Ocean View to schedule an appointment to meet with our dentists. We are happy to help you address and find the best solution for your oral problem today, so you can attain a healthy Delaware smile!