As Americans living through the COVID pandemic, most of us are carrying out life from the inside of our homes. You may still be working or socializing through a virtual platform, and most of us are not seeing many people “face to face.” So what does it really matter if you have bad breath? You may not be offending your co-workers with your halitosis right now, but that doesn’t mean you should ignore foul breath odor. When your breath continues to emit a bad odor even after brushing your teeth each day, you may have a more deep-rooted oral health issue that needs your attention.
Bacteria and Bad Breath
Oral bacteria and bad breath go hand in hand. The bad breath we refer to in halitosis is not the same stinky breath we have we after eating onions or garlic. Instead, chronic halitosis is most often a result of excessive oral bacteria in the mouth. When the teeth are not cleaned properly (through brushing and flossing), bacteria can build up in the mouth. As it feeds on sugars that we consume, a foul-smelling Sulphur compound is naturally produced in the process.
How does excess bacteria and bad breath begin? The following are reasons why you have smelly bacteria lingering in your mouth:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Not brushing your tongue
- Dry mouth
- Untreated decay
- Gum disease
Stepping Up Your Dental Care Routine Fights Bad Breath
The first line of defense against bad breath can found in your oral care routine at home. Are you brushing for two minutes, twice a day? Are you covering all surfaces of your teeth and brushing your tongue? Are you flossing? Should you consider daily mouthwash? These are all ways to eradicate bacteria and plaque from your teeth and gums each day. Not only can diligent oral hygiene reverse halitosis, but it can also prevent gum disease.
The Gum Disease Warning
One of the most common signs of early gum disease is bad breath. Gum disease refers to inflammation and infection within the soft tissues that hold your teeth in place. Untreated gum disease can lead to the loosening of your teeth as well as threats to your overall health. Therefore, if your stubborn bad breath is accompanied by red, puffy or bleeding gums, it is important that you take quick action to address potential gingivitis.
Fresh Breath is Within Reach
If you find yourself popping peppermints in your mouth throughout the day or chewing spearmint gum to mask your bad breath, it may be time to talk to a dentist. At Gainesville Dental Group, we realize the importance of fresh breath as it pertains to your self-confidence as well as your oral health.
Posted on behalf of Gainesville Dental Group
