Common causes of bad breath and how to fix them

Having fresh breath is important, especially when it comes to business and personal relationships. Bad breath can have an impact on how successful your blind date is or how your business clients might view you. Some patients have specific incidents of bad breath, while others might deal with it daily. Bad breath, known medically as halitosis, has many causes. Drs. Gary McDowell and Ashley McDowell of McDowell Dental Group in Abington, PA can help patients who are struggling with bad breath find the cause of their condition and an effective solution. 

What is causing my bad breath? 

There are several different reasons why bad breath may become a problem. Below are just a few of the more common causes of halitosis in patients seen at McDowell Dental Group: 

• Dry mouth. Patients who have dry mouth do not have enough saliva flow. This can cause bacteria in the mouth to grow, resulting in a foul smell to the breath.
• Poor oral hygiene. Patients that do not brush and floss their teeth may find that their oral health takes a turn, resulting in chronic bad breath.
• Certain foods. Foods such as onions and garlic are infamous for causing temporary bad breath. This bad breath can remain hours after a meal has been consumed.
• Poor hydration. Staying hydrated is incredibly important for the body as a whole, but it is especially true for the smile. Dehydration can cause dry mouth, which reduces saliva flow and increases bacteria.
• Acid reflux. Patients who have been diagnosed with conditions such as acid reflux, heartburn, or GERD may find that their bad breath increases, especially if they are not treating the condition with medication.
• Infections. Colds and sinus problems are not only aggravating, but they can also result in bad breath due to postnasal drip.

Schedule an appointment at McDowell Dental Group 

Drs. Gary McDowell and Ashley McDowell of Abington, PA are committed to helping patients in the community improve the health and appearance of their smile with general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. If you are considering ways to address halitosis, it might be time to connect with a dental provider to discuss your options. Call (215) 885-0555 to request a visit at 1047 Old York Road.