If you have bad breath and it wasn’t caused by something you recently ate, it could be a sign that you have gum disease, tooth decay or an underlying medical issue. Bad breath, otherwise known as halitosis, can be embarrassing—but it’s important to figure out its root cause and remedy the issue.

The most common reason for bad breath? Poor oral hygiene. If you don’t keep your teeth and gums clean, decay and debris in your mouth can produce unpleasant odors. If you brush twice a day and floss daily and still have bad breath, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They’ll help identify the cause.

Gum disease (aka periodontitis) also causes bad breath. Bad breath is just one of the symptoms. Other signs you may have gum disease include swollen gums and bleeding. Left untreated, gum disease can wreak havoc on your health causing all sorts of dental problems and tooth loss.

Sometimes, an underlying medical issue is the culprit of bad breath. If you have a cold or allergies, you may have post-nasal drip. This can coat the back part of your tongue with bacteria from mucus. You can try using a tongue scraper to get rid of the bacteria in the short-term.

Dry mouth makes it easier for bacteria and bad breath to persist. Medications, radiation therapy for cancer and dieting can cause dry mouth. It’s important to keep saliva active in your mouth because it helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Try sipping water throughout the day.

Smoking causes bad breath and gum disease. Quitting is the first step to better breath.

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Do you want clean, refreshing breath and a winning smile? Schedule an appointment today and our team will get you on your way to a happier, healthier smile.