How to Get Rid of Bad Breath

Bad Breath

Bad breath (the technical name is halitosis) can be embarrassing, but it’s just a clue that something’s going on in your body that needs addressing. Mouth rinses and chewing gum may mask the problem, but to get to the bottom of it and correct it, we recommend a visit to St. Leonards Square Dental Care.

What Causes Halitosis?

If your breath has an unpleasant odour, it may be caused by one of two things. The first is something going on in the mouth; the second is a problem in the gastrointestinal system. When the problem stems from the mouth itself, it’s usually the result of decay or gum disease. This happens when bacteria, tartar and debris build up in the mouth.

How We Help

Our experienced dentist will start with a thorough examination to determine what the source of your halitosis is. He’ll let you know if you have cavities or gum disease and talk with you about your treatment options. Generally, this will include a proper cleaning to remove tartar and debris and may include filling any cavities. We may also prescribe antibiotics or antiseptic mouth rinse to eliminate any infection, swelling or discomfort.

How to Prevent Bad Breath

There are things you can do at home to minimise the chances of unpleasant breath. Brushing properly twice a day is important, and flossing regularly is critical because it’s usually food that gets caught between the teeth that ferments and smells bad. Brushing your tongue also helps, because your tongue is rough and can harbour bacteria and food debris, causing odour. Mouth rinse may also improve your breath.

Naturally, seeing us every six months for a thorough cleaning can help prevent problems from developing or worsening.

Any invasive or surgical procedure may carry risks. Before moving forward, it is recommended that you seek a second opinion from an appropriately licensed medical professional.