Why Does My Breath Smell So Bad?

Brush your teeth daily, but still notice an unpleasant odor when you talk or breathe out? It’s frustrating, but you’re not alone. Nearly one in three people have chronic bad breath (halitosis) — and it often has underlying causes that go beyond your toothbrush.

Our team at Austin Advanced Dentistry specializes in oral hygiene and tooth cleanings. We can help you identify the source of your bad breath and develop a treatment plan to freshen it. Here’s what you need to know about common causes of halitosis and how professional dental care can help you beat it.

The most common causes of bad breath

Most people get bad breath occasionally. Sometimes called “morning breath,” it’s generally normal and fades after brushing. But when bad breath persists, it might indicate an oral or overall health issue. Some of the most common causes of chronic bad breath include:

Poor oral hygiene

Brushing and flossing daily is the foundation of a good oral hygiene routine, but it’s important to use proper technique. When plaque and food particles aren’t thoroughly removed, bacteria can thrive in your mouth. These bacteria produce odor-causing compounds that lead to bad breath.

Gum disease and tooth decay

Gingivitis and periodontitis are bacterial infections of the gums. Not only do they threaten your teeth and gum health, but they also commonly cause persistent bad breath. Cavities and infected teeth can also harbor bacteria and contribute to unpleasant odors.

Dry mouth or other medical conditions

Saliva helps wash away bacteria and keep bad breath at bay. When your mouth is dry, bacteria can accumulate and cause bad breath. Certain medications, medical conditions, or mouth breathing are some possible reasons for bad breath.

In some cases, systemic health issues like sinus infections, gastrointestinal disorders, or diabetes can affect your breath.

Lifestyle habits

Foods like garlic, onions, and coffee can temporarily impact your breath, but these odors often go away with brushing. Crash diets or fasting can lead to ketosis, a metabolic state in which your body burns fat for fuel, and it can cause strong breath odors that may linger longer.

Smoking cigarettes and other tobacco products leave a distinct odor in your mouth. Plus, using tobacco contributes to gum disease and dry mouth, increasing your risk of bad breath.

Professional dental care for bad breath

If you’ve been struggling with halitosis, the first step to fresher breath is scheduling an appointment with your dentist. At Austin Advanced Dentistry, we take a comprehensive approach to diagnosing and treating chronic bad breath.

A professional teeth cleaning removes plaque and tartar buildup that may contribute to bad breath. We also evaluate your oral hygiene routine and provide personalized recommendations to help you keep your mouth clean and healthy at home.

If we identify gum disease or tooth decay, we’ll recommend appropriate treatments to restore your oral health, which also improves your breath. For patients with dry mouth, we can suggest strategies or products to stimulate saliva production.

In some cases, if we suspect a non-dental cause for your symptoms, we may recommend that you visit your physician for further evaluation.

You don’t have to live with embarrassing bad breath. Schedule an appointment with Austin Advanced Dentistry today, and let us help you get a fresher, healthier smile.