Halitosis - Bad Breath
Just about everyone has bad breath (Halitosis) at some
time, with approximately twenty five percent of people having bad breath on a regular
basis. If you're noticing an increase in bad breath following a dental
procedure, including dental implants, you should play it safe and have
your dentist take a look to make sure all is well.
Understanding Bad Breath
While about ten percent of chronic cases of halitosis are due to the metabolism of certain
types of medications, medical conditions such as kidney disease, diabetes, or liver
disease, the other ninety percent of people with bad breath can blame the degradation of
naturally occurring bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria thrive in dark, oxygen-poor
environments like your gums and the back of your tongue. Typically fifty percent of the
bacteria are in the back of your mouth under taste buds. Your taste buds have a mushroom
shape which provides the bacteria with the shady environment in which to thrive.
Chronic Bad Breath
For chronic bad breath, the problem may be easily resolved by using good oral hygiene. If
this does not resolve the problem, consult your dentist immediately.
You can keep your mouth smelling fresh by proper brushing, flossing, keeping your mouth
moist and chewing sugarless gum. A tongue scraper used on a regular basis will also reduce
bacteria at the back of your mouth. Avoiding foods containing sulfur (onions, garlic, and
cabbage) will also help as these foods produce sulfurous gases as you digest them.
About Mouthwashes
Mouthwashes have been marketed for years as solutions for breath problems, but most only
mask the problem for a short time. Alcohol-based mouthwashes can make matters worse as
alcohol will dry out your mouth which permits the bacteria to flourish. Mouthwashes that
contain chlorine dioxide are the most effective. Chlorine dioxide breaks up sulfur
compounds and will not stain your teeth. Tongue scraping should still be used, as
mouthwashes do not reach the back of your tongue. You do not need a prescription to get a
chloride dioxide mouthwash.
Next: Learn about dental
hygiene
- A helpful tooth chart.
- Which dental specialties
perform which dental procedures.
- What to look for in a good
dental relationship.
- What can be done to stop tooth
decay.
- Learn what Halitosis is and what you can do about
it.
- General oral hygiene
information for that great new smile.
- Learn to understand and
manage fears of pain or gagging
- Sleep through dental
procedures.
- Glossary of dental terms
- Useful links that will be
helpful to you while you're doing your research
- A list of Dental Schools
- A checklist will help you to
find the right cosmetic dentist for you.
   
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