Mouth infections mean loads of bacteria, which—when they decompose—can release odors of sulfur, says Giannacopoulos. If you think you could have an infection like pericoronitis, which is inflammation of the soft tissue around the crown of a tooth, it’s time to clean up your oral hygiene habits and see your dentist.
You’re brushing and flossing all wrong.
Truth: Most of us are brushing and flossing completely incorrectly—and this causes food particles to build up, says Giannacopoulos. “Trapped food particles accelerate the growth of bacteria and cause inflammation, leading to bad breath,” she says. A quick brush-up on brushing: “Hold the brush horizontally against your teeth and tilt it at a 45-degree angle,” says Giannacopoulos. “Move the toothbrush in short horizontal strokes.” You should do this twice a day for 2 minutes each time. As for flossing? “Gentle and thorough are key words,” says Giannacopoulos. The floss should go slightly under your gum line and hug each tooth. “Brushing alones misses almost half of the tooth surfaces, so flossing is a must” she says.
You neglect your tongue.
Your pearly whites aren’t the only things that need brushing. Bacteria thrives all over your mouth, especially on your tongue, says Giannacopoulos. So pick up a tongue scraper at your local pharmacy and use it every time you clean your teeth, she suggests. Just remember to be careful—you don’t need much pressure.
You haven’t had your wisdom teeth removed.
Holding on to your wisdom teeth? These teeth and the operculum—the piece of gum over wisdom teeth that are growing in—can trap food and bacteria and become infected, which can contribute to stinky breath, says Giannacopoulos. It’s best to ask your dentist if you need yours out. And if you have an infection, you could need antibiotics.
You have a cavity.
Here’s a good case for keeping a date with your dentist every 6 months: “Sometimes untreated cavities can cause sensitivity and pain; however, sometimes they can go unnoticed,” says Giannacopoulos. And if you have one, you might give off some stink. “Bacteria essentially eat away at tooth structure and release odors,” she says. So stay up to date on your cleanings—clinical dental exams and x-rays can ID cavities.
Call Weisbard Dental today to get a cleaning and exam! 303.773.3373
This article originally appeared in Women’s Day.
