Onion, garlic, coffee and alcohol. All of these are known for causing bad breath, and although bad breath can be caused by something you eat, it can also be a sign of deeper oral health and hygiene issues.
Before you blame the garlic, look deeper at some of the main causes of bad breath.
Bacteria and food particles
If you don’t brush your teeth regularly, food particles may stick around or get stuck between your teeth. This can cause a buildup of bacteria and plaque, which leads to bad breath. The best way to prevent bacteria from accumulating in your mouth is to keep a consistent oral hygiene routine. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss once a day and visit the dentist regularly.
Poor diet
We’re not just talking about drinking too much coffee or eating too many garlic dishes. There are many dietary choices that can lead to bad breath. For example, high-sugar diets can cause bad breath due to the way sugar interacts with existing bacteria in our mouths. High protein or low carbohydrate diets can also be culprits for bad breath.
Dry mouth
Saliva keeps our mouths clean, so a lack of it can lead to bacterial buildup and bad breath. When people talk about “morning breath,” this is due to a natural decrease in saliva production while asleep. To avoid dry mouth, stay hydrated throughout the day or chew sugar-free gum to promote saliva production.
One of the best ways to avoid bad breath is to keep up with your oral health. Start today by scheduling your next dentist’s appointment with Jackson Dental. Call (573) 243-5200 or stop by our office at 3100 E Jackson Blvd., Jackson, Mo., to get scheduled.