What Is That Smell? Is Your Breath Telling You Something?
Are you self-conscious when you speak to others because you are concerned about the smell of your breath? It is not uncommon to experience bad breath from time to time, especially after drinking a cup of coffee or eating certain foods. The problem is quickly remedied after you brush your teeth thoroughly. If you experience frequent bad breath, it may be an indication that there is a problem with your oral health.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath is usually an indicator that you have an issue with your oral health. It can be caused by:
Poor Oral Hygiene
One of the most common reasons you may be experiencing bad breath is poor oral hygiene. If you are not cleaning and flossing your teeth properly, bad breath can develop due to lingering bacteria and food particles. It is best to brush a minimum of two minutes twice a day and use dental floss at least once a day.
Untreated Tooth Decay
Bad breath can also be a warning sign that you have untreated tooth decay. Decay that remains untreated can cause an odor. Similar to food that is left out and begins to smell bad, the same can be true for decay that grows in your mouth.
Gum Disease
Bad breath is one of the few warning signs of gum disease. When bacteria and plaque build up along the gumline and between teeth, it can lead to serious inflammation problems.
Dry Mouth
This condition is caused by a lack of saliva in your mouth. When your mouth is too dry, it can cause an unpleasant odor. Be sure to drink plenty of water.
If you are located in the Upper East Side and are experiencing bad breath, we suggest that you make an appointment as soon as possible to rule out any of the concerns mentioned above. We look forward to helping you improve your oral health.