Bad Breath- Be Gone!
There are millions of bacteria in the mouth, especially in the back of the tongue. These bacteria feed on the debris which accumulates between your teeth and mouth. It is this bacteria that creates a sulphurous compound which in turn creates a bad odor. Factors like drinking alcohol, smoking, some medications, foods and health problems will also contribute to bad breath.
At Chinook Mall Family Dental Clinic, we recommend the best way to eliminate bad breath is improved oral hygiene. Each day you should be brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, as well as flossing. Perfecting your maintenance technique will go a long way in reducing bad breath while also keeping everything healthy and functioning properly. At your regular 6-monthly checkup your dentist can discuss with you proper technique, as well as help you identify any areas you may be missing in your current routine.
Other good habits to reduce bad breath are
- Drinking plenty of water – drinking water after a meal rinses your mouth and dislodges any food particles that may be stuck in your teeth or lingering in your mouth.
- Chew sugar free gum after a meal – chewing produces saliva which is beneficial for fighting bacteria.
- Stop smoking – the many and various chemicals and poisons that go into making cigarettes will, over time, have an adverse effect on your oral health including the development of bad breath.
- Eat a well balanced diet – not eating too many starchy and sugary foods will reduce the risk of plaque and bacteria.
- Visit your dentist regularly – at our South Calgary Dental Office, one of our friendly staff will give you a professional cleaning, this will ensure that cavity causing plaque is removed. Leaving your mouth clean and healthy!
Bad breath may also be caused by
- Decayed teeth
- Gum disease
- Dry mouth, which is a condition that affects the flow of saliva
And while these are all treatable by a dentist, there are some causes of bad breath that cannot be treated by a dentist. After examination it is clear your oral health is good but you still suffer from bad breath, you will be referred to a general practitioner. Non dental related causes of bad breath include-
- Diabetes
- Liver and kidney problems
- Stomach problems
We encourage you to visit us if you suffer from bad breath breath so we can start your course of action immediately. Living with bad breath is a terrible thing and we want to ensure it is treated properly and promptly. We look forward to seeing you in our office. Please contact us today to make your appointment.
