There are several causes of bad breath, ranging from stomach problems to diet and teeth problems. Causes of bad breath, which are mostly found in the mouth, include:
- Tongue (when bacteria grows in between the papilla)
- Tooth decay (especially when food particles get stuck in the decay)
- Gum diseases
- Extraction sites during healing
- Dentures that are not cleaned properly
- Alcohol and tobacco use
If you or a loved one is concerned about bad breath, the first step is to schedule a dental checkup. Dr. Blake Lawlor will be able to diagnose and rule out the causes of the bad breath.
When our dentist finds the cause of the bad breath, treatment will be recommended and explained. Our dentist and team will make sure that you understand your treatment options so that you can make an informed decision. If the source of the bad breath is in the mouth, mouth washes or mints will not be able to treat the problem. They simply mask the problem for a short period of time, and sometimes make the problem worse. Mouthwashes that contain alcohol may cause dry mouth, which will make the problem worse.
A few non-dental causes for bad breath include:
- Sore throat
- Tonsillitis
- Some foods
- Infection of air passages
Practice proper dental hygiene and schedule regular dental checkups to prevent bad breath. Contact our dental office today to learn more about treatment for bad breath in Wichita, Kansas.