Bad breath, also referred to as halitosis, is an issue by which many people around the world are affected. Studies have been completed showing that almost half of Americans suffer from bad breath, and only around 20% of those cases are caused by bad oral hygiene. This leaves a lot of people wondering what is causing their bad breath, and what steps can they take to help get rid of it. The fact is that there are many different ways that bad breath can be caused, as well as a number of different solutions.
First and foremost, there are many different types of foods that are more likely to lead to bad breath. The first two that come to mind are onions and garlic, which are known to be bad breath causers. What happens is that the food particles get stuck in between your teeth, and as the food begins to rot, the smell is released causing bad breath. When you brush after meals, or floss, it will help to decrease the smell. There are other foods that lead to bad breath, as well, including foods that are particularly spicy, a number of dairy products, tobacco, and citrus fruits, as well as certain foods high in sugar.
Another cause of bad breath is dry mouth. Dry mouth is when the saliva in your mouth is not being produced at its normal level. Saliva is what helps to stop odor because it works to get the food out from between your teeth and helps to kill bacteria. Dry mouth can be caused by a number of different factors including allergies, certain types of medications, as well as general sickness. When you are suffering from dry mouth it is always a good idea to have a bottle of water nearby to keep your mouth hydrated and fluids flowing.
When looking at options regarding how you can get rid of your bad breath, there are a couple of simple steps that you can take. First off, it is important to remember to always floss and brush frequently. You should try to brush after every meal, especially if you have had a food that is particularly flavorful or spicy. This will help decrease the bacteria that causes the odor. It is also important to remember to brush not only your teeth, but to also brush your tongue. Your tongue has bacteria all over it just like your teeth and can lead to bad breath. Always remember to stay hydrated and keep up with your oral hygiene.
