Bad Breath……Cause and Cure

7/17/08
By: Dr. Larry Cook

Have you ever noticed someone with bad breath, or even worse has someone told you that you have "bad breath"? Have you almost been overcome as you had to endure the bad breath of a loved one or friend? Halitosis (medical term for the problem), can embarrass you or one of your friends. It can also effect how other people relate to you. I know the question that comes next……what causes bad breath?
The most common cause of bad breath is food particles that are left in your mouth after meals combine with bacteria to create a foul odor. Bacteria often collect on the back of your tongue which can create an odor.
Another common cause can be gum diseases that may be at the infection stage. The fluids oozing from an infected gum area will cause a very strong odor due to the pus in the fluids.
Another possible cause is "dry mouth". Saliva cleanses you mouth, washing away many odor-causing bacteria. A dry mouth allows more bacteria and their by-products to remain in your mouth, thus causing bad breath. You may develop dry mouth during your sleep if you do not drink enough fluids or because of certain medications.
Some types of food and drink can cause bad breath. These include garlic, onions, fish, cabbage, coffee, and alcohol. Smoking and chewing tobacco can make your breath unpleasant. This bad breath often stays with you even when you stop using tobacco. There are other causes of bad breath. Dentures, braces, or other mouth gear may smell if not kept clean. Certain medical problems can cause bad breath. Sinus problems that cause drainage into the throat may cause the problem. In general, bad breath becomes more difficult to prevent as one ages. Your dentist can search for the source of bad breath in instances where the problem is repetitive. If a cause is found, treatment may result in elimination of the problem. Some people think they have bad breath when they really do not.
A first step is to have your dentist confirm that a problem is present. Then the dentist should search for gum disease, ask questions concerning the foods and medications your are ingesting, and how you are caring for your teeth. You can do some simple things to avoid this problem. Firsst, brush after each meal and floss at least once per day. Brush your tongue as far back as possible, (or use a special tongue scraper) to clean food and odor causing bacteria in that area. Drink plenty of water, and frequently rinse out your mouth to improve saliva flow. Over the counter mouth washes only offer a very short term solution. Chewing sugarless gum can also help. Try to avoid those foods that can generate bad breath.
If you smoke or chew tobacco…..QUIT! You will be amazed at how much fresher your breath will smell. If there are no underlying medical causes, a person can usually achieve fresh smelling breath with the help of their dentist. Practice good oral hygiene, see your dentist regularly, and use what you have learned to keep your breath smelling great!