Halitosis

Better Breath Means Better Relationships

Bad breath, known as halitosis in professional circles, can cause embarrassment for the carrier and discomfort for others. If you have bad breath, you probably don’t want to talk about it, and if you know someone who has it, you don’t want to bring it up. Many people suffer from bad breath without even knowing it. Those who suspect they have halitosis try temporary cover-ups, like breath mints or alcohol-based mouthwashes that dry out the mouth and increase susceptibility to bad breath. Some people just don’t know what to do, so they do nothing.

What Causes Bad Breath?
The primary cause of halitosis is the interaction between oral bacteria and food debris, a continual process that creates malodorous molecules called volatile sulfur compounds. Tobacco and certain foods contribute to halitosis but are not a primary cause. The primary sites for halitosis-causing bacteria are the gums and tongue.

Professional Treatment
Diagnosis and treatment for periodontal disease involves the removal of odor-causing bacteria from under the gums. Repair and treatment of decayed or abscessed teeth further reduces sites that harbor bacteria.  Your dentist can also help determine if any systemic conditions or medications are contributors.

A Happier Ending
The evidence is overwhelming:  To end—or prevent—halitosis, you must eliminate the bacteria in your mouth and the sulphur compounds they create.  Regular brushing and flossing after meals will help greatly, but don’t forget to clean your tongue, cheeks and palate.  A non-alcohol containing mouthwash, such as Crest PRO-HEALTH or BreathRx, can help as can increasing your water consumption. Your dentist or hygienist can provide oral home care recommendations to assist you in keeping your breath smelling great.

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