Bad breath is never a fun thing to have to deal with, but it is something that everyone has to work to prevent. There can be some instances, however, that can really attribute to bad breath no matter how much you brush and floss. The following are some underlying issues and habits that can lead to increased bad breath:
Low Carb Diet
Many people are on a low carb diet in order to lose weight. If you follow a low carb diet, it can increase the likelihood of bad breath. This is because this type of diet is high in protein. The additional protein in your body has to be broken down more quickly and at a higher than usual rate. The smell of your breath stems from the bacteria that comes from the protein that then converts them to amino acids. These amino acids then transform into a chemical that has increased levels of hydrogen sulfide. Anything that contains sulfur or sulfide is consequently going to come along with a rotten egg smell. While this process takes place in the body on any type of diet, it is increased with diets that are higher in protein.
Cotton Mouth
Cotton mouth, commonly known as dry mouth, is a problem many people deal with for a variety of reasons. Saliva works as a freshening mechanism for the mouth as it is constantly washing away bacteria that can cause bad breath. When your mouth is too dry for too long, it results in reduced oxygen in the mouth as well, which also contributes to bad breath. Things that can cause cotton mouth include drinking too much alcohol, taking certain medications, or smoking.
Respiratory Illness
If you get sick with a respiratory infection, it can also cause your breath to become foul. That is because you typically suffer from a buildup of mucus in the throat. This is a prime breeding ground for bacteria growth, which is always going to lead to bad breath. To help combat this, you should gargle with antiseptic mouthwash regularly not only to alleviate the bad breath problem, but also to also help kill the bacteria in your throat. It may even help contribute to healing from your illness faster.
You should always practice good oral hygiene by brushing and flossing regularly every day. If you suffer from any of these problems, it is best to visit your dentist to discuss potential treatments and to ensure you are not dealing with underlying issues. For more help, talk with a dentist like Hughes Thomas R.
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