A common condition that many individuals face is bad breath, also known as halitosis. Bad breath can be embarrassing and impact your confidence. However, it’s important to understand that bad breath is a common issue with various causes and effective treatments.

What Causes Bad Breath?

• Poor Oral Hygiene - In many cases, bad breath is a result of poor oral hygiene. When food particles linger in the mouth, they promote bacterial growth, leading to an unpleasant odour.

• Gum Disease - Gum disease is another common cause of bad breath. It occurs when bacteria accumulate between teeth and gums.

• Dry Mouth - Saliva plays a key role in cleansing the mouth and neutralising acids produced by bacteria. A dry mouth, often caused by medications or certain medical conditions, can contribute to bad breath.

• Tobacco Use - Smoking or using tobacco products can contribute significantly to bad breath, along with other detrimental effects on your oral health.

• Certain Foods - Onions, garlic, and spicy foods can cause bad breath - but this is only temporary.

Prevention & Treatment

• Maintain Good Oral Hygiene - Focus on the basics - brush your teeth twice a day, floss daily, and antimicrobial mouthwash can be used occasionally to help eliminate bacteria and prevent bad breath.

• Regular Dental Check-ups - Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly. A professional clean removes plaque and tartar, addressing the root cause of bad breath. If there’s any sign of gum disease our dentists and hygienists can recommend treatment. When treated early, gum disease is reversible.

• Stay Hydrated - Keeping your fluids up helps maintain saliva production, helping reduce bad breath.

• Healthy Diet & Quit Smoking - Eating crunchy fresh fruits and vegetables are not only healthy but can promote saliva production. Consider giving up smoking and vaping to not only improve your breath but also your overall health.

At Curran Dental, we provide personalised treatment plans tailored to your specific needs to effectively address bad breath and improve your oral health.