Halitosis: Should You Be Concerned?

Halitosis, or bad breath, affects more than 80 million people in the United States alone. It is a very common problem that is nearly impossible to detect on oneself. It is left to concerned or affected family members, significant others, or friends to tell us if we have this problem. The personal and social impact on those who suffer from this problem is significant and often traumatic. If you think that you might be afflicted with this problem, your dentist or hygienist can help you diagnose the presence or severity of your bad breath, and find ways to control it, or eliminate it altogether.

In the mouth, the typical origins of bad breath are from the surface of the tongue and from the gums around the teeth. Poor oral hygiene, which leaves food debris around and between the teeth, causes the production and release of volatile sulfur compounds that are emitted in our breath as an unpleasant odor. Very spicy foods, foods cooked with garlic or onions, and drinks like coffee linger on a person’s breath for long periods of time. Certain diets which eliminate carbohydrates may also increase the problem of halitosis.

In many cases, bad breath may originate from different sources besides your mouth. Sometimes, systemic, or internal problems, such as acid reflux or other gastrointestinal problems, may contribute to gaseous emissions which emerge as bad breath. Many diseases, such as diabetes, liver malfunction, kidney failure, and even stress and dieting can affect your breath. Dry mouth (xerostomia) from many medications and tobacco products have an effect on the way our breath smells. Saliva is actually very helpful in washing away food debris and other deposits from the tongue, the cheeks and from around the teeth, thereby reducing the odor-producing materials in the mouth.

The remedy for halitosis starts with thorough daily oral hygiene care, including brushing of the teeth and tongue after meals, proper flossing at least once a day, watching one’s diet and reducing stress whenever possible, and chewing sugar-free gum which contains xylitol. Eating fresh fruits after a meal helps cleanse the mouth, as well.

Regular visits for dental cleanings and checkups will keep the gums and teeth healthy, and will give you the opportunity to discuss other options with your dentist.