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Foods That Can Cause Bad Breath
Bad breath has a variety of causes, such as poor oral hygiene, smoking, and certain foods. When you eat, food particles stick to your teeth. Bacteria come around to feast, particularly on carbohydrates. This creates acid, which produces smells. The chemicals in food also get into your bloodstream and then your lungs, where you breathe out their odor!
All food affects your breath, but some are stronger than others. Here are some examples:
1. Garlic & Onions
While delicious, garlic and onion both have a very strong smell. They’re high in sulfur, which enters your bloodstream. The chemical then travels to your lungs where you breathe it out. That’s why it can be hard to get rid of the smell even if you brush your teeth after eating these foods.
2. Horseradish
Horseradish is a condiment made from the white root of the horseradish plant. It has a spicy flavor and a pungent smell. The chemical isothiocyanate is responsible for that heat and odor. Like the sulfur in garlic and onions, isothiocyanate gets into your bloodstream and lungs, affecting your breath long after you’ve eaten horseradish.
3. Coffee & Alcohol
You’ve probably heard of “coffee breath,” but did you know coffee and alcohol can both lead to bad breath? It’s because these beverages decrease your mouth’s saliva production. This increases the volume of bacteria that cause bad breath. Check out these coffee alternatives!
How to Fix Bad Breath
You can fight bad breath by staying hydrated, brushing and flossing well, and visiting Dr. Villamayor at least twice a year at Amber Hills Dental in Henderson, NV. Regular cleanings and exams help keep your smile healthy and your breath fresh. If you have any questions about our comprehensive dental services or want to schedule an appointment, please contact us today!