- Bad breath is a common condition that can be embarrassing, but it can also be a sign of poor oral hygiene or habits.
- Sometimes bad breath is caused by something you ate, but several other lifestyle habits can also cause it.
- In many cases, lifestyle tweaks can take care of bad breath. Although seeing a dentist twice a year is still recommended.
Worried about bad breath? You’re not alone. Bad breath, also known as halitosis or oral malodor, is a common condition. As a matter of fact, more than 80 million people have chronic bad breath, according to the Academy of General Dentistry (AGD).
There are several causes of bad breath, including habits, certain foods, and even medications. Let’s take a closer look at common causes and what to do about them.
Not Brushing and Flossing Enough
Poor oral hygiene is a common cause of bad breath. When you don’t clean your teeth regularly, lingering food particles and bacteria can lead to plaque. The same goes for your tongue, which can also trap food particles and bacteria.
While it may be tempting to slack off occasionally, thoroughly cleaning your entire mouth is essential. In fact, the American Dental Association (ADA) recommends brushing teeth twice a day and flossing once. That way, odor-causing bacteria don’t get a chance to stick around.