Surprising Causes of Bad Breath and How to Treat Them

Chronic bad breath or halitosis is something mints, mouthwash, and good brushing can’t fix, and it has many various causes. Here are a few hidden reasons for bad breath that can dim your smile and leave you feeling self-conscious:

Dry-mouth

Not only does it feel uncomfortable, but dry-mouth has some unforeseen results for your breath. Ever wonder why morning breath is a thing? That’s because saliva in your mouth dries out while you sleep, and saliva is the thing that washes away bacteria and food particles and keeps your mouth fresh. Other causes of dry mouth include smoking, drinking alcohol or coffee and mouth breathing, all of which contribute to bad breath.

Dental problems

Cavities or gum disease give the bacteria that cause bad breath a place to hide that’s difficult to clean away. Cavities contribute to chronic bad breath and even cause infections which can also cause odour and can even become life-threatening. Visit a dentist if you suspect you have dental problems, and keep up regular dental check-ups.

Mouth, Nose and Throat Infections

Sinus, nose and throat infections can cause a post-nasal drip which may also be a contributing factor in bad breath.

Various medications

Various medications cause your mouth to dry out, which can, in turn, cause you to develop bad breath. Common medications like antihistamines and decongestants can commonly cause dry mouth and, in turn, bad breath.

Chronic conditions

Medical conditions such as diabetes, liver problems and even stomach disorders such as acid reflux can cause a change in your breath for the worse. If you notice a consistent problem with your breath, it’s always a good idea to have an overall health check-up to make sure there is no health concern contributing to halitosis.

To get rid of bad breath:

1. Ensure you combine good oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing and rinsing with other general health maintenance.
2. Treat dry mouth by drinking water, chewing sugar-free gum or sweets to help your body create more saliva.
3. Target the undercover causes of halitosis for long-lasting fresh breath so that you can smile-wide with confidence.

Good oral hygiene is its own reward. More than just giving you fresh breath, it also enhances your smile, which is known to boost your confidence and lift your mood. Remember to use Closeup Deep Action toothpaste for 12 hours of fresh breath!