Dentist in Chicago, Chicago Cosmetic Dentist

Halitosis, often known as “bad breath,” is a condition which is both embarrassing and irritating, especially since it is often first noticed by other people. While the cause of bad breath may not always be a oral health condition, people worried about chronic bad breath are well advised to talk to their dentist about possible solutions.

So what causes people to have bad breath? Sometimes, the cause of bad breath is not necessarily an oral health problem:

Eating Certain Foods

Foods such as garlic or onions contain chemicals which, after being digested and absorbed into the bloodstream, are carried to and expelled from the lungs, causing a generally unpleasant breath odor. This odor usually persists until the body has gotten rid of the food and the associated compounds.

Use of Tobacco Products

Not only do tobacco products stain teeth and damage gums, but they also cause breath odor which repels most non-smokers.

Medications

Certain medications have also been known to cause halitosis. If you think that this may be the case, consult your dentist for more information.

However, there is often a link between an oral health problem and bad breath. For example, simply failing to brush and floss regularly can leave food particles trapped between teeth and in the mouth. When these particles begin to rot, bad breath odors are produced. Keeping your mouth clean will eliminate this common source of bad breath. Some other oral conditions which may cause bad breath:

Xerostomia

Xerostomia, also known as dry mouth, is a shortage of saliva which makes it more difficult for your mouth to naturally clean itself of food particles. As noted above, food particles trapped in the mouth gradually begin to decay, creating unpleasant odor. If you suffer from xerostomia, your dentist may be able to help by prescribing artificial saliva, or giving you advice on how to remedy the condition through your eating and drinking habits.

Bad Breath as a Symptom of a Medical Disorder

Respiratory tract infection, sinusitis, diabetes, or gastrointestinal disturbances are all medical disorders which may result in bad breath, among other symptoms. If you have chronic bad breath, speaking to your dentist may help you determine if your bad breath is orally related, or if you should see a general physician to diagnose other medical issues.

If you suffer from halitosis and the resulting social consequences, speak with a Chicago dentist right away to discuss possible treatment options. Chicago general and cosmetic dentist Dr. Bagai is here to help you with all your oral health needs. Call 773-767-1554 or visit www.drbagai.com for more information.