Bad breath can put a damper on your social life, but this unpleasant condition might also be indicative of health issues. Chronic halitosis can be a symptom of a tooth infection, acid reflux, and other health conditions. To help you get to the bottom of bad breath issues, a local dentist from Tri-State Dental Care in Fort Wright, KY, discusses the various causes below.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Sinus Issues

People who suffer from allergies or sinus issues sometimes have bad breath, usually due to post nasal drip. When excess mucus is produced, it drips down into the throat or back of the nose, where bacteria thrive.

Excess mucus in the back of the throat can also lead to tonsil stones, which are calcified accumulations of bacteria, and result in bad breath. To treat halitosis from allergies and sinus problems, consider using a saline spray twice daily to flush mucus from the sinuses. If the condition advances to a sinus infection, you may need antibiotics to treat it.

Poor Dental Hygiene

In cases of poor dental hygiene, bad breath will develop because plaque and food particles are left behind in the mouth. Without regular flossing and brushing, plaque buildup leads to more serious issues like cavities and gum disease, both of which contribute to bad breath.

For optimal dental hygiene, brush twice daily and floss once a day. If you suspect you have cavities or gum disease, schedule an appointment with your dentist right away.

Gastric Conditions

Gastric conditions like acid reflux and GERD sometimes lead to bad breath, because the body is essentially regurgitating stomach contents. Some cases of acid reflux are occasional, like after eating a spicy meal. But for chronic GERD, you should see your doctor about recommendations for antacid medications.

If you are suffering from dental-related bad breath, reach out to the specialist at Tri-State Dental Care in Fort Wright, KY. Their dentist offer compassionate, quality care for a range of services, including teeth cleaning, fluoride treatments, cosmetic and emergency situations. If you need urgent dental care, they work to honor same-day appointments whenever possible. Visit them online for more information, or call (859) 426-2790 to schedule an appointment today.