Bad Breath After Brushing and Flossing: Why Does It Happen?
Author: Dr Nimesh Patel
Everyone gets bad breath sometimes, even if they brush and floss well. This could mean there's another health issue.
Bad breath has possible reasons. Like 80 to 85 percent of the time, the root cause begins from the mouth. But sometimes, the breath smells after brushing are outside of mouth-related issues.
This article discusses the causes of bad breath even after brushing and offers solutions to freshen your exhale.
Causes of Bad Breath After Brushing
1. Cavities and Gum Disease
While brushing is crucial, it can't reach all the nooks and crannies where bad breath bacteria thrive. Cavities provide hiding places, while deep pockets caused by gum disease are breeding grounds for these odor-producing microorganisms.
2. Dry Mouth
Your saliva isn't just for spitting! It helps digest food, keeps your mouth lubricated for easy talking and swallowing, and fights off bad breath bacteria. Think of it as your mouth's personal cleaning crew.
But sometimes, your mouth can dry out, creating a feast for those same bacteria. This can lead to bad breath, gum disease, and oral problems. Certain medications, smoking, and drinking too much alcohol can all cause dry mouth.
3. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), commonly known as chronic acid reflux, occurs when stomach contents, undigested food, and acidic fluids back up into the esophagus.
This reflux is bad breath, a characteristic symptom that accompanies heartburn and acid in the mouth. It may also appear as a bitter taste. If left untreated, GERD can severely affect oral health and overall well-being.
4. Postnasal Drip
Ever feel that itchy sensation down the back of your throat? That's postnasal drip, a condition in which fluid leaks from your nose into your throat.
While its purpose is to trap and remove irritants, this fluid can become a breeding ground for bacteria, leading to unpleasant breath.
Sinus infections, colds, and even strep throat can all trigger this drip culprit.
5. Smoking
Smoking's assault on your breath goes beyond lingering cigarette smoke. It keeps your mouth dry and reduces saliva, which naturally kills odor-causing bacteria.
This dry environment, combined with the increased risk of gum disease from smoking, creates a perfect storm for bad breath from the tongue.
6. Underlying health conditions
While bad breath is often triggered by oral hygiene, sometimes deeper health issues can be to blame. This is because certain conditions cause changes in them, e.g.:
- Chemical changes: Diabetes, kidney failure, and liver problems can change the way your body handles waste, allowing chemicals to escape into your breath, leading to bad breath from your tongue.
- Bacterial imbalance: Stomach ulcers and intestinal obstruction can trap food particles and breed bad breath bacteria.
7. Orthodontic treatment
While both Invisalign and braces can increase your risk of cavities and gum disease, Invisalign offers a potential hygiene advantage.
Invisalign
Unlike permanent braces, removable aligners allow for efficient brushing and flossing, reducing the risk of food particle retention and plaque buildup, but the plastic barrier is still effective partially to prevent saliva flow, which plays a role in keeping your mouth clean and fresh. This can cause bad breath if not properly managed.
Natural Remedies for Bad Breath
1. Pineapple Juice
Many people say that drinking pineapple juice helps with allergies. You can try drinking a glass of pure pineapple juice or chewing on a piece of pineapple to see if it makes a difference.
2. Drink More Water
Ever feel like your breath needs a tropical getaway? Dry mouth may be to blame! Fortunately, the water acts like a personal oasis, keeping your mouth moist and washing away unwanted smells.
Sugar-free gum is another buddy, helping you produce more saliva for a breath of fresh air.
3. Baking Soda Rinse
A 2017 study suggests that baking soda rinses can be just as effective as some commercial mouthwashes! Just mix 2 tablespoons of baking soda with 1 cup of warm water and swish and scream for 30 minutes.
While gentle on your wallet, remember to consult your dentist if bad breath persists, as it could indicate other issues.
When to Get Medical Treatment?
If you notice that your bad breath lingers despite maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices, it is best to schedule an appointment with your dentist.
A dentist can help identify clues that indicate that gum disease or dry mouth may be causing the issue.
The best treatment depends on the cause. Deep cleaning may be recommended for gum disease, while dietary modifications and medication prescriptions may be necessary for GERD.
Professional guidance ensures a tailored solution for your situation.
Conclusion
Bad breath can persist even with consistent dental care practices. While the primary source is often the mouth, conditions like acid reflux or certain health issues can cause bad breath that comes from other areas of the body, and if you brush regularly and still feel like you have pain, it is recommended to see a dentist. The root cause can be pinpointed, and appropriate treatment can be provided.
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