Bad Breath: When Morning Breath Becomes Halitosis
Posted on December 13th, 2023
It’s often said that a true friend will tell you if you have bad breath. Bad breath, formally known as halitosis, is embarrassing and can hold you back from truly enjoying your life and social situations. Like a good friend, Dassani Dentistry in Houston will tell it to you straight. Read more below to determine what to do about your bad breath.
Is Bad Breath Normal?
Yes. Sorry. But some bad breath is just unavoidable. Moderate and occasional bad breath is caused by the normal breakdown of foods for digestion. Most people don’t wake up with minty fresh breath because bacteria build up in your mouth overnight while you are sleeping. Keep normal bouts of bad breath at bay with good oral hygiene, by drinking plenty of water, and by chewing sugar-free gum containing xylitol.
Lifestyle vs. Medical Causes of Bad Breath
Your lifestyle or daily habits may cause you unusually bad breath. There are some things you can do every day to keep bad breath at bay:
- Brush your teeth twice a day (and don’t forget your tongue!)
- Floss once a day
- Keep dentures & other oral appliances clean
- Stop smoking
- Eat a healthy diet including a variety of foods and enough calories
- Avoid odorous foods like coffee, garlic, and onions
However, a larger medical issue can cause constant and/or severe bad breath:
- Dry mouth
- Lung, kidney, and liver problems
- Gum disease
- Respiratory illness like colds and sinus infections
- Acid reflux
If you think your bad breath might be linked with other health issues, see your dentist immediately. You might need more tests to determine the cause.
How Do I Get Rid of Bad Breath?
A dentist will be able to review your medical history and closely examine your mouth to determine what might be causing your bad breath. It’s likely that the dentist will recommend some diet and lifestyle changes to improve your breath and overall health. Time to get friendly with your toothbrush!
Like all good friendships, quality time with your dentist is an important factor in your oral health success. A good relationship with your dentist, including visits at least twice a year, will help you avoid bad breath and many other oral health issues. Make an appointment with Dassani Dentistry today to see us for a consultation or cleaning!
The content of this blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of qualified health providers with questions you may have regarding medical conditions.
About Meghna Dassani, DMD
Dr. Meghna Dassani received her initial dental training from the University of Mumbai, India, where she graduated in 1996 as Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS). After working as an associate for one year, she established her own practice in Mumbai, India. She successfully operated this practice for six years prior to moving to the US. When Dr. Meghna Dassani is not in the office she is at home being a mommy to her 2 beautiful girls and enjoying time relaxing with her husband. Since opening her own practice in 2011 she doesn’t have a lot of free time but when the time allows she enjoys traveling, reading, gardening, cooking, visiting with friends and family and of course SHOPPING with a Starbucks in her hand!
