Let’s Talk About Bad Breath (Gross!)– And How to Fix It
Bad Breath Isn’t Just About Mints
Bad breath, or halitosis, is more common than most people think—and more complicated, too. About 90% of the time, the source lies in the mouth, not the stomach. Identifying the root cause is key to treating it effectively, which means getting to the source is critical. So what are the three top culprits behind your bad breath?
The Real Culprits Behind the Odor
The same bacteria that causes gum disease can release a sulfur gas which causes bad breath. The solution? Get a saliva test today!
Bacteria that live along the gumline are definite contributors to your bad breath. That means brushing and flossing more frequently to combat the stink.
And lastly, bacteria living inside the crevices of your tongue can be a major cause of bad breath. That’s where your trusted tongue scraper comes in handy.
So, What Can You Do Today?
- 🪥 Schedule a dental exam to check for bacteria under the gums
- 🧼 Brush, floss, and clean along the gumline daily
- 👅 Use a tongue scraper twice a day to remove bacterial buildup
- 🧪 Consider a saliva test to identify the microbes contributing to bad breath
Habits That Keep Bad Breath Gone
Stay on top of cleanings. If your gums bleed when you brush (“pink in the sink”), it’s time to see your dentist. Cleanings every three months remove harmful bacteria beneath the gumline before the odor starts.
Scrape, don’t brush, your tongue. A stainless steel tongue scraper used twice a day removes bacteria and fungi a toothbrush leaves behind. Bonus: it boosts your sense of taste.
Hydrate consistently. Water helps flush bacteria and keeps your mouth less hospitable to odor-causing microbes.
Ask about oral microbiome testing. A saliva test gives an inside look at what’s really going on in your mouth, so treatment can target the actual source instead of masking it.
Are you someone who is struggling with bad breath? Get to the root cause and rid yourself of bad breath issues! At Collective Health Society Dr. Katie Lee and her team help patients in Centennial, Highlands Ranch, Aurora and Greenwood Village reach oral and systemic health by finding the root cause of symptoms and offering a true reset. Schedule an appointment or call 303-223-2343.
