The majority of people wake up in the morning with bad breath. This is because the saliva production that washes away odor-causing bacteria slows during sleep. Simply brush your teeth when you awake, or follow these simple tips to avoid bad breath, and your fresh breath will be instantly restored.
But what if you have “morning breath” all the time – even after you brush your teeth? You may be one of the 80 million Americans who suffer from chronic bad breath, also called chronic halitosis. Cosmetic dentist Dr. Kevin B. Sands can treat chronic bad breath at his Beverly Hills practice, depending on what has caused the condition.
What causes chronic bad breath?
Xerostomia
There are many causes of chronic halitosis. Since a lack of saliva leads to oral odor, it makes sense that conditions such as acid reflux or postnasal drip, which cause chronic dry mouth (xerostomia), would lead to chronic bad breath. If your mouth is constantly dry and you do not have a treatable condition or disease, follow these tips for how to treat dry mouth.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Those who don’t regularly brush and floss their teeth often develop excess bacterial growth in their mouth. Dentures that are not properly cleaned can also become a breeding ground for bacteria. Gum disease, also called gingivitis, can develop from these poor habits and can lead to dreaded “dragon breath,” as well as bleeding gums.
Gingivitis often occurs when plaque, which can only be removed with dental tools, builds up on the teeth. Visiting your dentist for cleanings twice a year will definitely help to prevent gum disease and other odor-causing problems like cavities (also called “dental caries”). Knowing how to properly brush your teeth is also crucial to avoiding bad breath.
Internal Medical Conditions
Continuous mouth odor can also be caused by internal medical conditions, such as liver disease, diabetes, chronic bronchitis, and respiratory tract infections. If you suspect that one of these diseases is the cause of your offensive breath, consult your primary care physician.
Cracked fillings
If your dental filling becomes cracked, it can collect food particles that are difficult to reach with a toothbrush. These food particles can breed bacteria and cause infection and, consequently, poor breath. After Dr. Sands replaces the cracked filling and cleans the patient’s teeth, the problem of chronic bad breath will usually resolve.
There are so many causes of chronic halitosis, yet these are just a few. Be sure to read our previous post for more surprising causes of bad breath.
Dr. Sands can help prevent as well as treat chronic bad breath for patients in Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, and the surrounding areas of Southern California. If you would like treatment for chronic bad breath, or if you are interested in cosmetic dental services provided by Dr. Kevin B. Sands, please schedule an appointment by calling (310) 273-0111 today. For your convenience, you may also fill out our online contact form.