The foods and beverages that you consume can cause bad breath. The food you eat is absorbed into the bloodstream and moves to the lungs. This affects the air you exhale. The bad breath will last until the culprit has left your body. The following foods may cause bad breath:
- Onions
- Garlic
- Cheese
- Pastrami
- Some spices
- Orange juice
- Soda
- Alcohol
Those who eat too infrequently may also experience bad breath. Saliva is used to cleanse the mouth, so if you have dry mouth, bad breath can be the result. Poor dental hygiene can also cause bad breath, as bits of rotting food and bacteria will remain in the mouth. Gingivitis can also cause bad breath because of the inflamed gums. Bad breath is sometimes an indication of a more serious health problem, like:
- Sinus infection
- Chronic lung infection
- Liver or kidney disease
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Diabetes
Ask our dentists for tips to correct halitosis. When you come in for your regular dental checkups, our dentists can spot and treat bad breath causes like gum disease. If needed, we will refer you to a doctor to see if there is an underlying health problem causing the issue. Contact our office today to learn more and to schedule an appointment.
