Bad Breath?

Do you suffer with BAD BREATH? What is BAD BREATH? Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is breath that has an unpleasant odor. This odor can strike periodically or be persistent, depending on the cause. In many people, the millions of bacteria that live in the mouth (particularly on the back of the tongue) are the primary causes of bad breath. The mouth's warm, moist conditions make an ideal environment for these bacteria to grow. Most bad breath is caused by something in the mouth. Some types of bad breath, such as "morning mouth," are considered to be fairly normal, and they usually are not health concerns. The "morning mouth" type of bad breath occurs because the saliva that regularly washes away decaying food and odors during the daytime diminishes at night while you sleep. Your mouth becomes dry, and dead cells adhere to your tongue and to the inside of your cheeks. Bacteria use these cells for food and expel compounds that have a foul odor. In addition, bad breath can be caused by the following: Poor dental hygiene Infrequent or improper brushing and flossing can leave food particles to decay inside the mouth. Infections in the mouth Periodontal (gum) disease Respiratory tract infections Throat infections, sinus infections, lung infections External agents Garlic, onions, coffee, cigarette smoking, chewing tobacco Dry mouth (xerostomia) This can be caused by salivary gland problems, medications or by "mouth breathing." Systemic illnesses Diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, sinus disease, reflux disease and others Psychiatric illness Some people may perceive that they have bad breath, but it is not noticed by oral-health-care professionals or others. This is referred to as "pseudohalitosis." Symptoms A person may not always know that he or she has bad breath. This phenomenon is because odor-detecting cells in the nose eventually become accustomed to the constant flow of bad smells from the mouth. Others may notice and react by recoiling as you speak. Other associated symptoms depend on the underlying cause of bad breath: Poor dental hygiene Teeth are coated with film or plaque, food debris trapped between teeth, pale or swollen gums Infections in the mouth Gums may be red, swollen and bleed easily, especially after brushing or flossing; pus may drain from between teeth; a pocket of pus (abscess) at the base of a tooth; loose teeth or a change in "fit" of a denture; painful, open sores on the tongue or gums Respiratory tract infections Sore throat, swollen lymph nodes ("swollen glands") in the neck, fever, stuffy nose, a greenish or yellowish nasal discharge, a mucus-producing cough External agents Cigarette stains on fingers and teeth, a uniform yellow "coffee stain" on teeth Dry mouth Difficulty swallowing dry foods, difficulty speaking for a prolonged period because of mouth dryness, a burning sensation in the mouth, an unusually high number of dental caries, dry eyes (in Sjögren's syndrome) Systemic (bodywide) illnesses Symptoms of diabetes, lung disease, kidney failure or liver disease Diagnosis A dentist or hygienist may notice the patient's bad breath while the patient is discussing his or her medical history and symptoms. In some cases, depending on the smell of the patient's breath, the dentist or hygienist may suspect a likely cause for the problem. For example, "fruity" breath may be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes. A urine-like smell, especially in a person who is at high risk of kidney disease, can sometimes indicate kidney failure. Your dentist will review your medical history for medical conditions that can cause bad breath and for medications that can cause dry mouth. Your dentist also will ask you about your diet, personal habits (smoking, chewing tobacco) and any symptoms, including when the bad breath was noticed and by whom. Your dentist will examine your teeth, gums, oral tissues and salivary glands. He or she also will feel your head and neck and will evaluate your breath when you exhale from your nose and from your mouth. The dentist will then discuss the finding with you and refer you to see the hygienist for further treatment if you require. Expected Duration How long bad breath lasts depends on its cause. For example, when the problem results from poor dental hygiene, improved dental care will begin to freshen the mouth immediately, with even more impressive results after a few days of regular brushing and flossing. Periodontal disease and tooth abscess also respond quickly to improved dental treatment. Bad breath resulting from chronic sinusitis may be a recurring problem, especially if it is caused by a structural abnormality of the sinuses. Bad breath the results from a systemic illness may be a long-term problem that can often be controlled with medical care. Prevention Bad breath caused by dental problems can be prevented easily. Daily maintenance calls for brushing your teeth, tongue and gums after meals and flossing/interdental cleaning. Regular visits to the dentist and hygiene appointments may be needed if bad breath continues. Bad breath also can be combated by drinking plenty of water every day to encourage saliva production. An occasional swish of the mouth with water can loosen food particles. Other products that keep breath fresh and prevent plaque from forming include sugar-free gum, raw carrots and celery. Treatment The treatment of bad breath depends on its cause. When To Call A Professional? Call your dentist promptly if you have bad breath with painful, swollen gums that bleed easily or loose teeth. Even if you have none of these associated symptoms, call your dentist if your bad breath continues despite a good diet and improved dental hygiene. Call Park Street Dental today or send us a message to talk to us if your having problems with bad breath.