Everyone experiences bad breath from time to time. Maybe they ate something with garlic, drank too much coffee, or slept with their mouth open. These instances are easy enough to address. Many people chew on a stick of gum or put a mint in their mouth.
While these options can provide a quick fix, they’re not always enough to treat the underlying cause of serious bad breath.
True bad breath is known as halitosis. While that might sound like some sort of magical potion, it actually refers to extended and often inexplicable presence of an unpleasant smell (and taste) within your mouth. In order to take care of halitosis, you first need to understand what causes it.
What Cause Halitosis?
The primary cause of halitosis is bacteria build-up. That’s why bad breath is common after you sleep, especially if you sleep with your mouth open. Bacteria builds within your mouth, creating a smell. However, that’s not the only cause of halitosis.
Halitosis can stem from cavities, gum disease, and infections in your mouth, nose, or throat. Those who deal with dry mouth also experience halitosis, as they lack the saliva needed to properly rinse and clean their mouth naturally.
Ultimately, the best cure to true bad breath is proper oral hygiene. You should be brushing 2-3 times a day, along with flossing and rinsing with mouthwash. This will remove bacteria while protecting against cavities and gum disease. If you’re experiencing bad breath despite taking proper care of your mouth, you may want to visit a doctor or dentist.
Orthodontic Treatment and Bad Breath
Some people with braces or Invisalign notice an increased presence of bad breath when they first begin treatment. This too stems from a lack of proper cleaning. Braces can provide more places for food to get caught and bacteria to build up. That’s why it’s very important you practice proper hygiene habits when you have braces.
The same is true for Invisalign wearers. If you’re not properly cleaning your trays and taking them out when you consume anything besides water, bacteria can start to build. This can quickly turn to halitosis. Make sure you are following the instructions of your orthodontist, and you will be just fine.
In fact, orthodontic treatment generally instills better oral hygiene habits in people. Those with braces or Invisalign take better care of their teeth during their treatment. Once their treatment is over, these habits become lifelong practices for many.
Also, with properly aligned teeth, it become easier to evenly clean your teeth and prevent bacteria build up. While there is an initial risk of increased bad breath for those with braces or Invisalign, the end result is typically a reduction in bad breath.
If you’re worried that undergoing orthodontic treatment will result in bad breath, you have nothing to worry about. Start your journey towards a better smile today. For orthodontics in Beavercreek, Ohio and the surrounding communities, contact Dhingra Orthodontics today!
