Having halitosis — the medical term for bad breath — can lower one’s self-esteem. It’s an embarrassing issue that, though no one wants to have, can be easily acquired if one has poor oral hygiene and unhealthy eating and drinking habits. If you ask an affordable dentist in Arlington Virginia, it can even be a sign of a more serious dental concern.
This article will give you a comprehensive discussion about this rather common dental issue.
Causes of Bad Breath
With your mouth as the entry point of your digestive system, it is a place where a plethora of bacteria can reside. These bacteria and other food particles, when not removed, can develop a pungent odor leading to bad breath.
However, it is not the only cause of the problem. If you persistently have bad breath, it could signal that you have other health conditions including periodontal disease, dental cavities, and yeast infections of the mouth. The root of the issue can also be traced to other illnesses not that go beyond your mouth, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, diabetes, and liver or kidney problems.
How It Is Diagnosed
When you consult an affordable dentist in Arlington Virginia, he or she will gauge the extent of your halitosis by smelling the breath from your mouth and nose. He or she may also scrape the back of your tongue — which is the most common source of the bad odor. In other clinics, advanced detectors are used to pinpoint the exact chemicals that cause the pungent smell coming from your mouth.
To fully understand your situation, your dentist will also inquire about your medical history and ask questions to know when did you first experience halitosis, how occasional it is, what are your oral hygiene practices, and what are your eating and drinking habits, among others.
Ways To Get Rid of Bad Breath
Treating halitosis and keeping your breath fresh is a continuous effort. Here are some tips you need to know:
Brush and floss your teeth regularly. This fundamental practice should never be taken for granted. Prevent plaque and bacteria from building up by properly brushing and flossing your teeth — and your tongue — every after a meal. You should also replace your toothbrush every three to four months.
Clean your dentures and other dental appliances. If you wear dentures, bridges, or other dental gears like mouth guards, make sure to clean them as instructed by your dentist.
Use a mouth rinse. More often than not, using toothpaste is not enough to get rid of bacteria. Kill off these microorganisms in your mouth by rinsing with a mouthwash. A great alternative is a solution of salt and water.
Adjust your diet and watch what you eat. Sugary foods and alcohol are linked to having bad breath. If you want to maintain a fresh breath, you have to be mindful of the foods and drinks you take into your mouth. It also helps to keep your mouth moist by hydrating yourself and drinking water (and not any other beverages).
Don’t skip dental visits. Never skip an appointment with your affordable dentist in Arlington Virginia so he or she can fully monitor your progress. Dental cleaning should also be done at least twice a year, depending on your condition.
At Arlington Advanced Dental Care, you will find an affordable dentist in Arlington Virginia. Contact us today to set an appointment.
