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No one wants to chat with someone who has bad breath, and even worse, no one wants to be the one with the bad breath. Although this symptom, otherwise known as halitosis, isn’t necessarily a matter of life or death, it can be harmful to self-esteem and can be embarrassing. When gum, mints, and mouthwash stop working, there could be other underlying causes unrelated to oral hygiene, but to find a solution, we must get to the root of the problem.

There are a number of possible causes of bad breath. Most people who suffer from halitosis are dealing with oral bacteria but there can be other causes as well. One possible cause can be dry mouth which is a decrease in the saliva that helps wash away leftover food particles. To avoid this, it is important to stimulate saliva by chewing gum or drinking plenty of water.

Gum disease and poor oral hygiene can also greatly affect smelly breath. This can be prevented by keeping up with a stringent oral care routine. This includes brushing and flossing thoroughly, making sure plaque doesn’t build up.

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Bad breath is often attributed to food, especially to strong-smelling foods such as onions, garlic, or pickles. The particles that sit in the mouth after eating attract bacteria that build up. To avoid this, brushing your teeth shortly after eating potent foods is important.

Smoking and the use of tobacco are detrimental to health and even go as far as harming oral health. Smoking and tobacco can not only be a reigning cause of bad breath but can also lead to gum disease and oral cancer. Patients with gum disease may be referred to a gum specialist or periodontist. Although it may be hard for some, the simple solution here is to quit using tobacco products altogether.

Other medical problems can be a contributing factor to bad breath as well. Whether it’s a mouth infection, sinus infection, the common cold, reflux, or even diabetes, these health conditions can also lead to halitosis. In this case, it is important to see your doctor if the problem persists.

Dr. Mimi Yeung and experts at M.Y. Dental Spa are here to assist you with all halitosis needs, whether it is a mouth bacteria-killing mouth rinse, antibacterial toothpaste, or something more serious. The New York office can identify and target the problem directly to help you achieve fresh breath by receiving the quickest, most effective treatment.