What Causes Bad Breath?

What Causes Bad Breath? 7 Surprising Sources of Stinky Breath (And What to Do About It!)

Think your bad breath is just morning breath? Think again. From tongue gunk to hidden wires, these seven causes may surprise you—and one of them you’re probably doing twice!

“Bad breath isn’t just a social worry—it can be a sign your mouth needs help,” says Mas’ood Cajee, DDS, MPH, a Manteca dentist. “Often the cause is hiding in plain sight, like your tongue or that old retainer.”

Here are 7 common culprits:

  1. Smoking – Tobacco dries your mouth, damages tissue, and invites smelly bacteria. Smokers are also more likely to have gum disease (another breath offender).

  2. Smoking (again!) – Yes, it’s worth repeating. It stains, inflames, and reduces your ability to smell and taste—so you might not even notice your own bad breath!

  3. Lingual Wire Retainers – These behind-the-teeth wires can trap plaque and food if not cleaned daily. That crud buildup becomes a cozy home for odor-causing bacteria.

  4. Crud (Food Debris) – Bits of food stuck between teeth, under the gums, or around appliances can rot and smell. Flossing daily helps prevent this.

  5. Your Tongue – The top of your tongue can become a bacterial sponge. A quick daily tongue scrape or brush can do wonders.

  6. Post-Nasal Drip or Throat Issues – Mucus draining down your throat feeds bacteria and smells funky. Allergies, sinus infections, or tonsil stones may be to blame.

  7. Gum Disease – Bleeding, swollen gums are often a sign of infection—and that infection stinks. Regular dental cleanings and good hygiene can prevent or reverse it.

Where to Get More Info:

DID YOU KNOW…

  • Garlic breath can actually travel through your bloodstream to your lungs—so brushing won’t always fix it!

  • Dogs can get halitosis too—and it’s often a sign of dental disease.

#dentistmanteca #ddsmanteca #bracesmanteca

How Much Coke is Too Much?

Even one can of Coke per day can increase the risk of cavities in an 8-year-old, especially if consumed frequently or slowly over time (like sipping it throughout the afternoon). Here’s why:

“It’s not just how much sugar, but how often teeth are exposed to it,” says Dr. Max Calder, DDS, MPH, a Manteca-based dentist. “With soda, every sip re-starts the acid attack that can last 20 to 30 minutes.”

Here’s what happens:

  1. A single 12 oz Coke has about 39 grams of sugar (almost 10 teaspoons).

  2. Sugar feeds cavity-causing bacteria, which produce acid that erodes enamel.

  3. Frequent exposure (like drinking a Coke every day or sipping slowly) creates repeated acid attacks that weaken teeth.

  4. Children’s enamel is softer than adults, making it easier for cavities to form.

So how many is too many?

  • 1 Coke once a week: Probably okay if the child brushes well with fluoride toothpaste.

  • 1 Coke per day: Risk of cavities goes way up, especially if snacked with sticky foods.

  • 2+ Cokes a day or daily sipping: Very high risk for multiple cavities.

Tip: If Coke is a treat...

  • Drink it with a meal (less acid damage).

  • Use a straw to reduce contact with teeth.

  • Brush teeth after 30 minutes or rinse with water.

DID YOU KNOW?

Coke is as acidic as battery acid (pH around 2.5)! That’s why it can clean coins — and damage teeth.

#dentistmanteca #ddsmanteca #bracesmanteca
Where to get more info: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dental_caries

Can Gardening Really Make You Healthier and Happier?

Can Gardening Really Make You Healthier and Happier?

Feeling stressed or sluggish? A little dirt under your nails might be just what the doctor ordered. Gardening isn’t just about pretty flowers—it can help your heart, your mood, and even your social life.

“You’d be surprised how many of our patients tell us they feel calmer, stronger, and more optimistic after spending time in the garden,” says Dr. Mas’ood Cajee, DDS, MPH, a Manteca-based dentist and wellness advocate.

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Are You Too Old for Braces? (Hint: The Answer Might Surprise You!)

Are You Too Old for Braces? (Hint: The Answer Might Surprise You!)

So, is age a barrier to braces? Definitely not! Whether you’re in your 30s, 40s, or older, it’s always the right time to get the smile you’ve been dreaming of. With so many discreet and effective options out there, there’s a solution for everyone. From improving your oral health to boosting your confidence, braces can make a big difference. Why wait any longer? It’s your time to shine with a beautiful smile at any age!

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Doomscrolling Before Bed? 5 Ways It’s Wrecking Your Health!

Doomscrolling Before Bed? 5 Ways It’s Wrecking Your Health!

You sit down to check your phone for “just five minutes,” and suddenly, an hour has passed. If this sounds familiar, you might be caught in the trap of doomscrolling—the habit of endlessly scrolling through negative news. But did you know this habit could harm your sleep, dental health, and overall well-being?

“Many people don’t realize that poor sleep from stress and screen time can lead to serious dental issues like bruxism (teeth grinding) and TMJ pain,” says Mas’ood Cajee, DDS, MPH, a Manteca-based dentist. “Your jaw needs rest too, not just your mind.”

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Are You Doomscrolling Your Way to Stress? Here’s 5 Ways to Stop Doomscrolling!

Are You Doomscrolling Your Way to Stress? Here’s 5 Ways to Stop Doomscrolling!

You open your phone to check the news, and before you know it, you’ve spent an hour scrolling through headlines that make you anxious. Sound familiar? This behavior—called doomscrolling—is when we compulsively consume negative news, often leaving us feeling stressed, hopeless, or overwhelmed. Here are 5 ways to stop this harmful habit.

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How Can I Stress Less? 5 Simple Fixes That Actually Work

How Can I Stress Less? 5 Simple Fixes That Actually Work

Feeling stressed? You're not alone! The good news is that relief doesn’t have to be complicated. Whether you're overwhelmed by work, school, or just life in general, these five science-backed stress busters—recommended by experts—can help you relax in minutes. Ready to feel better fast? Let’s dive in!

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