Unpleasant Surprise Under Your Mask – Your Breath Smells!
The Coronavirus Pandemic has made many ills in our society become more apparent and visible. One of the biggest surprises many have found, after donning the dreaded face mask, is their breath is not pleasant and, in some cases, really smells. Do not dismay, in most cases, it is easily remedied.
BAD BREATH – WHAT CAUSES IT?
If you have recently discovered an increased occurrence of your breath smelling bad, then your probably perplexed as to what is causing it. “Bad breath” is the common term for oral malodor or halitosis. This condition is an extremely common and fortunately treatable for the majority of adults. Bad breath can be simply the result of something you ate, or more concerning, a warning signal of a deeper oral health problem or serious medical issue. General Oral Health – For most adults, poor oral hygiene is the culprit. Unfortunately, when you do not clean your teeth and your whole mouth regularly, small food particles tend to remain in your mouth. This causes plaque, which is the sticky buildup of bacteria that forms on your teeth. The Consumption of Flavorful Food & Drink – Have you ever noticed how powerful the smell of foods such as onions, garlic, certain vegetables, and spices? The odor, from the food particles, passes to the bloodstream and are carried to the lungs, where it affects the odor of your breath. Coffee – Coffee’s intense flavor has a direct effect on your breath, but also negatively affects saliva production. The decrease in saliva production results in an increase in odor-causing bacteria. Alcohol – The effect of drinking alcohol depends on the level of consumption. Similarly, to coffee, alcohol causes a decrease in the production of saliva thus allowing odor-causing bacteria to flourish. High-Sugar Diets – High sugar diets can result in halitosis due to the sugar interaction with existing bacteria in your mouth. Sweet treats equal sour smells. Other Potential Causes - High-Protein or Low-Carb Diets, Smoking, Dry Mouth, and Prescription MedicationYour Bad Breath Could Be a Symptom of Medical Issue
Yes, the smell under your mask may be the coffee you had for breakfast or the extra onions on your hamburger at lunch. However, it could be a symptom of a deeper medical issue lurking below. Bad breath can be a warning sign that other diseases or illnesses are present. Some possible medical reasons:- Postnasal Drip
- Respiratory and Tonsil Infections
- Sinus Problems
- Diabetes
- Liver and Kidney Issues
- Specific Blood Disorders
SOLUTION – MAKE YOUR ORAL HEALTH A PRIORITY
Curing bad breath can be simple as taking better care of your mouth and teeth. Here are a few things you can do to help make your breath better outside the regular breath mints:- Brush and Floss (Twice a Day)
- Mouthwash
- Clean Dentures (Nightly)
- Maintain a Steady Flow of Saliva – Eat healthy foods that require a lot of chewing, like carrots or apples. Also, chewing sugar-free gum or sucking on sugar-free candies can help.
- Quit Smoking
- Regular Dental Visits