Is Bad Breath Ruining Your Perfect Smile?

Cosmetic dentistry is great for improving your smile, your health, and your overall confidence. However, all the work you’ve had done to get that new beautiful smile can be all for nothing if you have bad breath. It’s a topic most people don’t want to think or talk about, but having bad breath can have a negative effect on how people deal with you, and it can also be a sign that something is wrong with your health. Here is the low down on bad breath and what you can do about it.

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath is often caused by poor dental habits. Plaque and bacteria gather on the teeth and gums if you don’t brush and floss daily, and this can lead to bad breath. If you wear dentures and don’t clean them regularly, this can also cause bad breath. 

Bad breath can also be caused by some medications or even a condition called “xerostomia,” or dry mouth. Dry mouth causes bad breath because saliva is needed to help clean the mouth and get rid of any debris that might cause odors. 

How is bad breath treated?

To avoid bad breath, make sure to take good care of your teeth and mouth by brushing and  flossing often and visiting your dentist at least twice a year. Also, replace your toothbrush regularly, drink lots of water, and avoid sugary foods, coffee, and alcohol, which can make the mouth dry. 

However, if you have bad breath that you just can’t seem to get rid of, you should make an appointment with your dentist so he or she can evaluate possible causes for this condition. It may be a sign of a throat or mouth problem such as an infection, acid reflux, or even a sign of some cancers. 

A beautiful smile just isn’t that beautiful if you also have bad breath. Arlington Dental Aesthetics can help determine any problems you may have so that you can have the beautiful smile you deserve. Call the office Arlington at (703) 214-3183 or South Riding Smiles in South Riding at (703) 214-3185.