Plaque causes bad breath because it houses active bacteria. These bacteria break down food particles and skin cells into foul-smelling acidic Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs).
How Does Plaque Cause Bad Breath?
Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a major concern. Bad breath causes great discomfort and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. Bad breath can also affect those around you, complicating interactions. Understanding how plaque contributes to bad breath and how this can be controlled is very important.
Every mouth has some amount of plaque since bacteria are always actively breaking down food substances into acidic substances that bind more bacteria and food particles. The bacteria will break down these food substances into foul-smelling sulfur compounds that are responsible for bad breath. With time, considering the warm temperatures in the mouth, the food particles that the bacteria do not manage to work on start to decay, and this releases smelly gases which contribute to bad breath.
The back of the mouth is a notorious dental plaque hub since it is difficult to brush and clean. Crevices at the back of the tongue house bacteria, which interact with amino acids and starchy foods to release foul-smelling sulfur gases. These gases from the teeth and tongue are responsible for bad breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.
Can Bad Breath Be Prevented?
Proper oral hygiene is the easiest way of preventing bad breath. Brushing your teeth, scrubbing your tongue, and flossing regularly help regulate bacterial activity in the mouth, reducing dental plaque and bad breath. We recommend proper brushing of teeth at least 2 times a day to control plaque.
People with tooth cavities, gum disease, dry mouth, and dental work, including dentures, are more prone to bad breath as these cavities are very conducive to bacteria breeding. Using anti-bacterial mouthwash after meals can help disinfect the mouth and regulate bacterial activity if brushing after every meal is not possible.
Closing Remarks
Dental plaque is the main cause of bad breath due to bacteria activity. Contact us today for oral hygiene tips that will help prevent bad breath.
Dental Blog | Dentist Salem, OR | Fairmount Dental Center Fairmount Dental Center has created this dental blog to help patients and the community. Click to learn more about dental procedures, home care and more! Fairmount Dental Center, 1524 Commercial St. SE, Salem, OR 97302-4310 + (503) 362-8364 + fairmountdentalcenter.com + 10/3/2024 + Tags: dentist Salem OR +
Plaque causes bad breath because it houses active bacteria. These bacteria break down food particles and skin cells into foul-smelling acidic Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSCs).
