A teeth cleaning can help you to get rid of bad breath and plaque buildup. When your teeth have plaque on them, they are at risk for tooth decay. Plaque build up is also one of the biggest causes of bad breath because it harbors smelly bacteria. A teeth cleaning can knock out both of these problems.

Cleaning your teeth is important

It is important to clean the teeth every day at home with a toothbrush that is in good condition. People should brush for a few minutes and use a firm circular motion. Also, remember to brush the tongue. People should also floss every day at home. Flossing removes particles and plaque from areas that the toothbrush cannot reach. People need to floss gently but effectively. Get between each tooth if possible.

If the teeth have tight spaces, use a pick or water pick. These can slide in lower and remove particles. With proper technique, the patient will then have a healthier mouth overall. If a patient still feels like the breath gets stinky too easily, then it could be time for a teeth cleaning procedure.

Even though brushing and flossing work to keep the mouth clean and prevent cavities, plaque can still grow. If plaque remains on the teeth for too long, it can turn into an even harder and more hazardous version of itself, tartar. patients should visit us for a teeth cleaning procedure at least once a year, but two yearly visits are recommended. Using professional dental tools, we can remove the plaque, tartar, and harmful bacteria buildup that a patient was not able to access with at-home care. We can effectively clean the entire mouth, which can help to improve the bad breath. Simultaneously, the patient will have protection from gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss.

If the patient is still experiencing persistent bad breath after professional cleanings, there may be another problem.

Some commons reasons for bad breath outside of poor oral hygiene are:

Smoking and Tobacco Use

Smoking and using tobacco can leave a stale odor in one's mouth. When one smokes every day, this bad smell can be hard to get rid of. Cutting back or quitting will help. Visit us for a professional teeth cleaning procedure to get rid of any lingering odors.

Infection in Throat or Respiratory System

The presence of an infection in the throat, sinuses, or respiratory systems can lead to unpleasant breath. Visit a doctor to feel better and have better breath.

Kidney or Liver Disease

One of the signs of kidney or liver disease is persistent bad breath. This type of bad breath may have a different smell that is not familiar. If a patient notices an unusual type of bad breath, visit a doctor.

Dry Mouth or Dehydration

Dry mouth means that you are not producing enough saliva. Dry mouth can be a side effect of medicine or illness. A doctor can help. An individual may also have bad breath if he or she is not drinking enough. Fluid intake helps one produce saliva, and saliva cleanses the mouth and washes away bacteria.

These are just a few of the common reasons for bad breath. If you have concerns about your breath, visit us for teeth cleaning. After we examine your mouth and clean your teeth and gums, we can determine if we believe the cause of your bad breath is due to a reason outside of oral health. If so, Portola Dental Group can direct you to an appropriate help source as necessary.