Dr. Scott Merritt

Proper Dental Care Helps Keep Breath Fresh

BY SCOTT V. MERRITT, DMD

Your smile is usually the first feature people notice. It’s a simple facial expression that universally is understood. Along with a beautiful smile, we aim to have minty-fresh breath.

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a nuisance, and can negatively affect your self-esteem and overall health. Many factors can cause bad breath; however, poor oral hygiene habits are the main culprit. When good dental care is not practiced, plaque and tartar buildup accumulates, leading to bad breath.

Plaque — sticky bacteria that forms around the teeth and gums from the acids and foods we eat — hardens into tartar (also known as calculus). If this calculus is left untreated, it can lead to cavities, gum disease and tooth discoloration. Since it sticks to the teeth so tenaciously, a professional cleaning is the only way it can be removed safely.

It may come as a surprise, but another element that contributes to bad breath is our tongue. Bacteria settle in the nooks and crannies of our tongues, creating the ideal atmosphere for lingering bad breath. Pay special attention to your tongue by using a tongue scraper to rid it of bacteria.

Saliva plays an important role in the fight against bad breath. Saliva cleans teeth by washing away food particles. When enough saliva is not produced, it is a condition known as xerostomia, or dry mouth. Chewing sugarless gum, along with eating crunchy fruits and vegetables such as apples, carrots and celery, stimulates saliva flow, which helps eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Keeping hydrated is another crucial step in reducing bad breath. Be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day.

When good oral care is exercised, but bad breath continues to be present, this can signal an underlying health condition. Certain lifestyle habits also influence persistent bad breath. Certain foods, along with alcohol and tobacco use, can leave a foul smell. Mints only mask the issue for a short period of time.

Dec. 12 is National 12-hour Fresh Breath Day, and is the perfect reminder to address any dental concerns. Remember, a healthy smile is a great asset. Self-care techniques, such as brushing your pearly whites, flossing, enjoying a balanced diet and regular dental visits, will help keep bad breath under control.

Dr. Scott Merritt founded BridgeMill Dentistry in 2002. The office is located on Sixes Road between Ridge and Bells Ferry roads.