Effective oral care is key to combatting bad breath, as it directly impacts bacteria in the mouth. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups, especially at Montz and Maher Dental Group in Friendswood, help prevent the buildup of odor-causing bacteria. Today we’ll explore some answers to common questions about bad breath.
Q. My wife says my breath is terrible, but I brush twice a day. Shouldn’t that be enough?
A. Bacteria can multiply and stink in hidden crevices that can only be reached with floss. Time to start flossing. If your breath hasn’t improved in a few months, make an appointment so we can look at other possible causes of your halitosis.
Also, keep in mind that brushing just the teeth may not eliminate food particles between the teeth and up in the gums. Gently brushing the gums, sides of the mouth, and the tongue in addition to the teeth may make a difference in your breath while maintaining a beautiful smile.
Q. My breath seems to get worse during hay fever season. What’s up with that?
A. Allergies can change mouth odor in a couple of ways. First, anything that stimulates post-nasal drip can be a trigger because bacteria at the back of the throat mix with the mucous and expends a smelly odor as it breaks down. Second, hay fever medications often cause dry mouth which can result in stinky breath. Antihistamines can reduce post-nasal drip so this is a catch-22. If you take antihistamines, drink water frequently throughout the day to keep your mouth moist, suck on sugar-free mints to stimulate saliva production, and rinse with a non-alcohol mouth rinse.
Q. What health conditions can lead to bad breath?
A. As discussed before, any condition that reduces saliva creation can cause halitosis. It is also a frequent side effect of diabetes, kidney failure, and liver failure. Of course, if your kidneys or liver is failing, you have bigger problems.
Q. Why did my breath become intolerable when I went on a strict low-carb diet?
A. Ketones were most likely the culprit. Ketones are produced when the body digests fat—which is usually the goal of a low-carb plan. On the flip side, it sounds like you weren’t cheating!
Contact Montz and Maher Dental Group:
281-482-1275
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
820 S Friendswood Ste 100
Friendswood, Texas
77546