Now that you’ve been wearing a mask more than normal, you probably noticed a change in your breath. You’re probably wondering why the mask is making your breath smell, when in reality it may not be the mask. Wearing a mask is similar to constantly cupping your mouth to smell your breath.
Halitosis, commonly referred to as bad breath, is a result of decreased saliva production. There are many other reasons why you could be experiencing bad breath, so we made a list of potential reasons.
Bad Breath Culprits
- If you aren’t receiving as much water as normal, this can result in bad breath. Regular water consumption allows for bacteria to be washed away before they can multiply and cause your breath to smell. When you’re wearing a mask it inhibits you from drinking.
- When food gets trapped between your teeth and under your gums, bacteria will start to break it down, leaving behind a foul odor. Make sure you’re brushing your teeth and tongue three times a day, flossing, and using mouthwash with fluoride in it!
- Your diet can contribute to your bad breath. Garlic, coffee, fish, eggs, and onions are all known to leave an odor behind on your breath. Sweets are also amongst the list of foods that can give you halitosis. According to CNN, sugar is like a superfood to bacteria, leaving a stink behind. Gummies and caramels are the worst offenders, but if you have a sweet tooth that won’t go away, your best option is to go for plain chocolate!
- Breathing from your mouth will increase any smell. Saliva production is decreased at night. Mouth breathing or snoring can further dry out the mouth, making your breath even fouler than the normal “morning breath”. The best way to get to the bottom of your mouth breathing problems is to drink an excess of water and continue with your regular dental hygiene routine.
- You could be experiencing bad breath as an early sign of an underlying medical condition. If you’re experiencing acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease the acid can create bad breath. Untreated GERD can develop into serious illness. Bad breath can also be an early sign of other underlying diseases that don’t have any noticeable symptoms.
Get Rid of Your Bad Breath Today
If you’re experiencing halitosis, consider making an appointment to visit your dentist! Your dentist will be able to determine the reason behind your bad breath and be able to give you some solutions. Here at Advantage Dental Group, we have been taking precautions to keep you and our staff safe.