One of the most common causes of bad breath is a poor oral care routine. When food particles accumulate in your mouth, they encourage the buildup of bacteria, leading to bad breath. Additionally, certain foods can cause persistent bad breath even after you brush, such as onions and garlic. These foods stay in your bloodstream, affect your lungs, and seep into your breath.
If you experience persistent bad breath, see your dentist for a checkup and cleaning. Tell your dentist about any changes in your medical history; some medical conditions can contribute to bad breath, including diabetes and kidney failure. Bad breath can also be caused by oral infections, such as gum disease, mouth sores, or an infected surgical site. Your dentist can recommend an appropriate treatment plan based on the underlying cause of your condition.
If your bad breath is caused by gum disease, schedule an appointment for scaling and root planing at University Associates in Dentistry. We invite Chicago-area residents to call our cosmetic dentistry practice at (312) 704-5511.