Why do I have bad breath?

Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Most of us suffer from bad breath from time to time, usually as a result of eating foods with very strong odors. But chronic bad breath doesn't just make you feel self-conscious. It may be a sign that a more serious problem exists.

Here’s a list of some of the most common causes of bad breath:

Oral Health Problems :

• Microbial deposits on the tongue
• Poor oral hygiene
• Presence of periodontal (gum) disease
• Untreated tooth decay

Lifestyle Choices:

• Use of tobacco products
• Dieting
• Skipping meals

Medical Conditions:

• Enlarged tonsils or tonsil stones
• Diabetes, sinus conditions, bronchitis

If your bad breath is causing you to avoid social interactions and making you feel self-conscious, please contact our Williams office first to determine if it’s related to a dental problem. At that time, we’ll also talk about your oral hygiene and any other changes you can make to eliminate chronic bad breath.