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Bad Breath Treatment Arlington Heights, IL

Bad breath, clinically known as halitosis, is often embarrassing to have. It can often affect personal and professional relationships, causing them to avoid one-on-one interactions. More importantly, it may indicate an underlying oral health problem such as periodontal disease or tooth decay. The key to successfully addressing halitosis is identifying the root cause. Arlington Heights, IL dentist Dr. Brent Engelberg provides diagnosis and treatment for bad breath to help restore your confidence- and often improve your dental health.

Treating Halitosis in Arlington Heights, IL

Dr. Engelberg will discuss your medical history, lifestyle habits and evaluate your oral health to determine the cause of your halitosis and recommend an effective treatment option. There are several common causes of halitosis that can be remedied with personalized dental care and oral hygiene:

Treatment can range from periodontal therapy to special rinses and oral hygiene products to be used regularly. Dr. Engelberg may also recommend lifestyle changes to improve your breath and overall health.

If you have been suffering with bad breath that is affecting your quality of life, schedule a consultation with Dr. Engelberg to learn more about treatment for halitosis and to improve your dental health.

What Causes Bad Breath?

One of the most common causes of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. When food particles are left in the mouth, bacteria can break them down, releasing foul-smelling gases. This can happen if a person does not brush and floss their teeth regularly, allowing plaque to build up on the teeth and gums. Tongue bacteria can also contribute to bad breath if not cleaned properly. Using a tongue scraper or brushing the tongue can help to remove these bacteria and prevent bad breath.
 
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, can also lead to bad breath. Saliva helps to wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth, so a reduced saliva flow can allow these substances to accumulate and cause an unpleasant odor. Medications can cause dry mouth, certain medical conditions, or simply insufficient water. Chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can help to stimulate saliva production and alleviate bad breath caused by dry mouth.
 
Certain foods and drinks can also cause bad breath. Strong-smelling foods like garlic, onions, and spices can leave a lingering odor in the mouth that can be difficult to mask. Coffee and alcohol can also contribute to bad breath by drying out the mouth and allowing bacteria to thrive. Avoiding these foods and drinks or brushing and flossing immediately after consuming them can help to reduce bad breath.
 
Smoking and using tobacco products can also cause bad breath. Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that can stick to the teeth, gums, and tongue, contributing to a foul odor in the mouth. Smoking can also dry out the mouth and increase the risk of gum disease, which can further exacerbate bad breath. Quitting smoking or using tobacco products can improve oral health and help to eliminate bad breath.
 
Poor digestion can also be a factor in bad breath. When food is not properly digested, it can produce gases that can be released through belching or flatulence and through the breath. Digestive issues like acid reflux, gastritis, or intestinal disorders can lead to bad breath. Eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and managing stress can help to improve digestion and reduce bad breath.
 
Mouth, throat, or respiratory tract infections can also cause bad breath. Bacterial infections like gum disease or cavities can release sulfur compounds contributing to bad breath. Infections in the throat or sinuses can produce mucus that can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Treating these infections with antibiotics or other medications can help to eliminate bad breath.
 
Certain medical conditions can also be linked to bad breath. Diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, and respiratory conditions like bronchitis or pneumonia can all cause a foul odor in the breath. These conditions can affect the body’s metabolism and how it eliminates toxins, leading to bad breath. Managing these conditions with medication, lifestyle changes, and regular check-ups can help to control bad breath.

Bad Breath FAQs

A variety of things can cause bad breath. Learn more by reading the answers to these frequently asked questions.

What can bad breath be a sign of?

Bad breath can indicate bad oral care, dry mouth, infection, or medication. It can also be caused by food and tobacco use. If you are experiencing chronic bad breath, your dentist will be able to identify the cause and help you stop it.

How can I get rid of bad breath at home?

The best thing patients can do to get rid of bad breath is to be more consistent with their oral care routine. Brushing and flossing after eating are good habits to practice to get rid of bad breath. Another good habit is regularly changing your toothbrush or its head.

Bacteria can get stuck in the bristles of your brush. If you do not regularly change your toothbrush, you could be brushing bacteria onto your teeth.

Can antibiotics cure bad breath?

Antibiotics can help work against bad breath. Your dentist can recommend antibiotics if they think it will help fight against your bad breath.

How can you treat bad breath from the tongue?

Sometimes, bacteria left on the tongue can contribute to bad breath. Using a tongue scraper or cleaner or brushing the tongue with toothpaste can reduce bad breath. If you smoke, vape, or use tobacco products, it’s a good idea to use a tongue scraper to remove buildup from the tongue. Leftover nicotine can coat the tongue and lead to bad breath. 

What is the best drink for bad breath?

A simple glass of water can help reduce odor-causing bacteria and food particles. Drinking water that contains small amounts of fluoride is also beneficial for your tooth and gum health. 

Why do I have bad breath even after brushing my teeth?

If you still have bad breath after brushing, you may not have brushed or flossed thoroughly. Smells can also persist from strongly smelling foods like onions and garlic. You may also have a dental problem like gum disease or tooth decay. If you floss before brushing and brush two minutes twice a day, you may need to schedule a dental visit. A dentist will provide oral health tips and treatment if needed.