Eliminating Bad Breath

Going beyond the breath mint

by Sheryl S. Jackson, Florida League of Cities

Most people know it as “bad breath,” but halitosis is a common condition that affects everyone at some time. Gum, mints and mouthwash might temporarily eliminate the problem, but the most effective way to treat halitosis is to identify and address the cause of the problem.

Common causes include:

▸ Breakdown of food particles in your mouth that increase odor-causing bacteria

▸ Smoking or use of other tobacco products

▸ Gum disease

▸ Poor dental hygiene

▸ Dry mouth, which means less saliva to cleanse the mouth

▸ Medications that release a chemical smell as they break down in your body

▸ Infections from tooth decay, gum disease, mouth sores or oral surgery

▸ Mouth, nose and throat conditions that create bacteria

▸ Chronic inflammation in sinuses that cause postnasal drip

▸ Some diseases such as cancers, chronic reflux or metabolic disorders.

The first step to eliminating bad breath is to improve oral hygiene habits. Brushing your teeth and tongue daily and flossing after every meal is important. Proper hygiene and drinking plenty of water throughout the day to clear bacteria from your mouth can effectively eliminate many cases of bad breath.

If these lifestyle changes don’t improve the halitosis, visit the dentist to be evaluated. Professional cleaning by a dentist and replacing faulty tooth restorations can remove bacteria breeding grounds to eliminate odor. Antibacterial toothpastes and mouth rinses may be recommended, or if the problem is related to gum disease, a referral to a periodontist, a gum disease specialist, will be made.

In most cases, regular dental checkups twice a year, along with good oral hygiene, will remove bacteria from the mouth and give the dentist opportunities to eliminate dental care as a source of bad breath. If the problem persists, a dentist can offer guidance to other medical professionals who can help diagnose the cause.

Sheryl S. Jackson is a Writer/Editor with the Florida League of Cities.

Source: mayoclinic.org