What Is Causing Your Bad Breath?

Bad breath, or halitosis, can affect first impressions at work and in social settings. If you’re dealing with persistent bad breath, a dentist in Yardley can help identify the cause. Oral health and breath quality are closely connected, and the team at Yardley Dental Arts can explain what’s behind it and how to prevent it.  

How Does Bad Breath Happen?

Bad breath, or halitosis, results from the activity of bacteria living inside your mouth. Bacteria and other microorganisms are always present on our teeth, gums, tongue, and throughout our mouth. Under ideal circumstances, bacteria is unnoticeable. However, bacteria population will flourish in the presence of excess food particles. If you skip brushing your teeth after dinner, you can expect to have bad breath in the morning because bacteria have been feasting on the remains all night.

Food Choices Can Affect Breath Quality

Certain food and drinks are known to have a very negative effect on the breath. Even if these foods are just small parts of larger dishes, they can have a big impact on breath. Watch out for halitosis-causing ingredients such as:  

• Coffee
• Garlic
• Onion
• Mustard
• Pickles, sauerkraut and other vinegar-rich foods
• Fat-rich milk and cream
• Pungent cheeses

Preventing Bad Breath

Brushing and flossing promptly after eating will drastically cut down on the bacteria that cause bad breath. Use an anti-bacterial mouthwash before bed to wake up with a cleaner feeling in your mouth. Quitting smoking will also quickly improve the quality of your breath. If you wear dentures or other forms of bridgework, make sure these are removed daily and cleaned.