What's Causing Your Chronic Bad Breath?
Posted on Mar 28, 2017 7:40am PDT
Most people have experienced the social awkwardness of bad breath now and
then. It often arises after eating a dish with garlic or a sandwich with
raw onions. In most cases, bad breath is a temporary problem. If you’re
experiencing bad breath on a regular basis, it’s time to see a
dentist. Bad breath could be a sign of a serious oral health problem.

Insufficient Oral Care
One of the most common causes of chronic bad breath is improper oral care.
It isn’t sufficient to occasionally do a thorough job of cleaning
your teeth. You’ll need to brush them for a minimum of two minutes,
at least twice daily or after each meal. Flossing is also crucial, yet
it’s a step that many people skip. Your dentist can help you improve
your flossing technique or recommend flossing tools that can make this
task easier. In addition to good at-home care, you can prevent chronic
bad breath by visiting your dentist’s office every six months for
a professional cleaning.
Gum Disease
Gum disease is another major culprit of chronic bad breath and often stems
from improper oral care. Gum disease is a progressive oral health problem
that begins with gingivitis and, if left untreated, eventually turns into
periodontitis. Without proper treatment, your bad breath will be the least
of your worries, as you’ll be at risk of losing your teeth.
Dry Mouth
Saliva plays an important role in oral health. It washes away the food
particles and bacteria that cause bad breath. Unfortunately, many people
have xerostomia, also known as chronic dry mouth. It’s often a side
effect of medications, but it can also affect people who sleep with their
mouths open. Your dentist can evaluate you for dry mouth and recommend
effective treatments.
Tobacco
Tobacco use is among the most dangerous habits for your health and the
health of everyone around you. Among other problems, tobacco is responsible
for chronic bad breath. Additionally, tobacco causes the teeth to become
a yellowish-brown color, and contributes to gum disease and tooth loss.
For complete preventive care in New York, you can turn to the dental office
of Dr. Charles Marks. We provide professional teeth cleaning, sealants,
fillings, and gum disease treatment. If it’s been longer than six
months since your last dentist visit, or if you’re
experiencing severe or chronic bad breath, call us promptly at (212) 279-1232.