What Causes Morning Breath?

What Causes Morning Breath?

Much like sleep apnea, morning breath can be a burden on your sleeping partner. While there are many possible causes for this issue, seeing your dentist and sticking to your dental hygiene routine can help. Read on and find out what types of conditions can lead to morning breath.
Poor Hygiene
If you don’t practice a regular dental hygiene routine, chances are your breath won’t smell very pleasant when you wake up in the morning. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss every day, and consider using mouthwash. These simple tasks don’t take long, and they’ll get rid of the bacteria and food particles that are causing your bad breath. Don’t forget to visit your dentist for regular checkups and cleanings, and always remember to brush your tongue downward, as this is where a lot of the smell tends to come from.
Dry Mouth
Saliva plays several important roles in the body. First, it helps break down food while we chew it, making the food easier to swallow. It also washes out the food debris that are left behind after finishing a meal. Saliva is constantly rinsing our teeth and helping to break down the leftover particles that contribute to plaque buildup. Certain types of health conditions and medications inhibit our ability to produce saliva, which means these contaminants stay put. Drink plenty of water, chew sugarless gum, and ask your dentist about artificial saliva to try to freshen your breath.
Sleep Apnea
Many of those who suffer from sleep apnea don’t know it, but one sign is bad morning breath. This is partially because the primary symptom is snoring, which can dry out your mouth. See your dentist for sleep apnea treatment to reduce your risk for disease in addition to dealing with your morning breath.
A dentist in Tucson might be all you need to get rid of your morning breath, and John Carson, DDS is just that. Give us a call at (520) 514-7203 or peruse our website for an overview of our cosmetic dentistry practice.