In 1921, a new word entered our vocabulary--halitosis. It was billed as a medical condition that causes bad breath in order to sell mouthwash. However, it wasn't real, although the mouthwash and its results were.
This isn't to say that bad breath isn't real, because it very much is. However, it's similar to armpit sweat or dandruff. It's not a medical condition so much as a basic result of existing: the body cools itself and skin cells die and fall off.
Even though bad breath is just a basic part of life, there are still ways to treat it. One of them is seeing a professional, and we can help you find a great dentist in Vancouver if you're in the area.
We'll offer some other solutions in this article.
Better Oral Hygiene
Sometimes, the problem is simply that you're not giving your mouth enough love. According to the ADA, you should brush your teeth twice per day for two minutes apiece. You should also floss once per day and use mouthwash twice per day.
Regular dental visits are another important part of dental care, as is replacing your toothbrush every few months.
Eat a Healthy Diet
We hear this advice on a fairly regular basis from various doctors, news outlets, and other places. It's important in dentistry as well. Our teeth and gums are affected by the foods we eat, and sugary foods can damage our teeth.
The harm caused by sugary food is often two-fold, or more accurately, one-fold with two separate causes. Sugar promotes the growth of bacteria in your mouth because bacteria use sugar as an energy source. As these bacteria multiply, they create acids that corrode your tooth enamel.
To make matters worse, sugary foods are often acidic, so two different sources of acid are acting on our teeth at once.
Diseases and Infections
As our oral health declines, infections and diseases, especially gum disease, become more common. Bad breath is just one symptom of gum disease, so don't jump to conclusions if it's your only issue.
Other symptoms to look for include pain, receding gums, swollen gums, bleeding gums, and loose teeth, to name a few. Suffice it to say that if you have gum disease, you've probably figured out that something's wrong.
Find a Dentist in Vancouver
Thankfully, gum disease is treatable, and treating it effectively can also lower your risk of cancer. We at VDS clinic are quite proud of this and more than happy to provide any help we can.
Gum disease, like most health conditions, is best treated as soon as possible. Early gum disease, known as gingivitis, is actually curable, although later-stage gum disease can only be slowed.
A Guide to Bad Breath Treatment
Bad breath is an annoying issue, but you can seek treatment if you want. Treating bad breath means understanding what's actually causing it. We've discussed some of the most common causes and treatments in this article, but it's always best to consult with your dentist if you think something serious is going on.
You can learn more about dentists and dentistry by visiting our site. We can even help you find a dentist in Vancouver. If you have ay questions or concerns please contact us.