For help improving your health, it is important to avoid risks often associated with underlying conditions that may be present. The number one rule is that you should never neglect your oral health care. If you begin to allow plaque buildup and bacteria to collect in your mouth, eventually it will lead to several oral health risks. One particular oral health risk that is often linked to poor oral health habits includes halitosis, also known as bad breath. However, not all forms of bad breath are guaranteed to be derived from your mouth alone.
Your first step to oral health care in treating bad breath correctly is making sure you understand what is causing it. If you don’t know what is causing it, then you’re simply treating bad breath itself and not the condition that is going to make it continually return. In many cases, individuals can mask bad breath by using cosmetic mouthwash or other temporary treatments but will fail to correct the issues that are causing it. Most commonly, bad breath is the result of excessive plaque buildup. Plaque is a thin layer of debris and bacteria on your teeth that can routinely cause dental damage and lead to bacteria that produce foul odors. With the presence of tooth prosthetics such as dentures, foods you consume or unhealthy habits such as smoking and chewing tobacco, you could be increasing your risk for bad breath. Furthermore, be aware that it could be the result of an underlying condition such as gum disease, a toothache, or even deeper underlying conditions such as liver or kidney problems or respiratory tract infections.
Do you still have lingering questions about bad breath? Drs. Hussey and Larson and our team at our office in Arlington, Washington, are here to help you take the steps to building a healthier you. You are welcome to call us at 360.653.5197 to book an appointment with us and to discuss your options for bad breath care.