So, what causes bad breath? Also known as halitosis, this can be an embarrassing disorder, one that can have a negative impact on your social interactions. Fortunately, we can help with professional breath control. In addition, understanding the causes of this issue can lead you to make better decisions about your oral health.
Foods and Drinks
When we eat foods with strong odors, such as onions or garlic, the scent can actually permeate the body. As a result, the odor can be difficult to remove or simply mask with breath mints. In addition, drinks like soda and coffee can actually worsen breath due to dry mouth. When these drinks dry the mouth, saliva isn’t available to help cleanse the mouth. Bacteria can then break down food particles, a process that leads to a foul odor, as well as a greater risk of tooth decay and gingivitis.
Smoking
When you smoke or use other tobacco products, you can impact the freshness of your breath. In addition, using tobacco products also increases the risk of oral cancer, as well as lung and throat cancer. We always urge our patients to quit immediately and avoid tobacco products.
Poor Oral Habits
When you don’t brush and floss as recommended, then plaque buildup can form from bacteria breaking down food particles. As we mentioned above, this can have a serious impact on your overall oral health.
Possible Solutions
First, give us a call. We have a variety of professional breath control options to help bring your halitosis under control. We can also discuss ways to improve your oral health, such as better brushing and flossing and routine dental cleanings every six months. If you have any questions about our treatment options, then please contact our office today.
ABOUT YOUR HIGHLAND PARK, IL, COSMETIC DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and our highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including: Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.
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