Bad breath is no fun at all, but there are things you can do to combat it. If bad breath is an issue for you or a loved one, talk to us about it at The Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry in Alexandria.
Common, garden-variety bad breath is caused by the things we eat and drink. Food debris builds up on the teeth and forms plaque, which is bacterial. The best defense against it is to brush and floss after every meal.
Foods containing garlic, onions, and other strong flavorings are in a class by themselves. Food particles can actually get into your bloodstream, and from there to the lungs. Once it does, it’s on your breath every time you exhale. You’ll have to wait it out.
Other common causes of bad breath:
- Coffee
- Alcohol
- Diets high in sugar
- High protein or Low Carb diets
- Smoking
These all involved ordinary bad breath. Digestive issues, like acid reflux, can also affect the breath. Dry mouth (xerostomia) can also cause it, since saliva helps to keep the mouth clean by washing away food debris.
Health Conditions
Bad breath can actually be a warning sign of a more serious health condition. If you have chronic bad breath even though you brush, floss, and even use mouthwash, be sure to tell your doctor. It could indicate a blood disorder, or liver and kidney problems. It isn’t common, but it could even be an indication of cancer.
At The Mt. Vernon Center for Dentistry in Alexandria, our services include family and restorative dentistry. People throughout the area trust us with their dental health. Please call to schedule your next cleaning and checkup today!
Contact Mt. Vernon Center For Dentistry:
703-360-5881
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
8101 Hinson Farm Rd Ste 114
Alexandria, Virginia
22306
