Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath is a common problem that can cause significant psychological distress. There are a number of potential causes and treatments available.

What causes bad breath?

There are a number of things that can cause bad breath. It’s usually the result of poor oral hygiene. If bacteria build up in your mouth, the toxins produced can cause your breath to smell.

Bacteria break down pieces of food in the mouth and may release an unpleasant-smelling gas. Any food trapped on your teeth – particularly between them – is broken down by bacteria, which may cause bad breath.

Persistent bad breath can sometimes be a sign of gum disease. Eating strongly flavored foods, such as onions and garlic, can also cause your breath to smell, as can smoking and drinking alcohol.

Canker/Cold Sores

Canker/Cold Sores

As the weather gets colder, you’re more likely to get canker and cold sores. These two conditions are commonly mistaken for one another.

Although they’re not the same, both canker sores and cold sores have similar triggers and treatments. It’s important to understand the difference between canker sores and cold sores so you can effectively treat them. But if we break it down, we see that they are two different conditions, with similar causes.

Your mouth is an incredible measure of the health of your body’s immune system. Let’s take a closer look at the differences so you can find relief faster.

Cavities and Tooth Decay

Cavities and Tooth Decay

What Is Tooth Decay?

It’s actually pretty simple. Decay (or softening of enamel) happens over time and the result is a cavity—a defect left in the tooth. Teeth are covered with a hard, protective top layer called enamel. But once the enamel is weakened by acids produced by bacteria, a pit or cavity is formed in or on the tooth surface.

What Causes Cavities and Tooth Decay?

Tooth decay occurs when foods containing carbohydrates become trapped between teeth and are not completely removed with brushing and flossing. The plaque bacteria generate acidic by-products that eat away at the tooth enamel, slowly creating holes in the teeth called cavities. Without treatment, these holes can grow larger over time and may even destroy the whole tooth.