Many things may cause halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath. Although it's thought to be mainly a social problem, it can be the indicator of a more serious health problem, so it should not be ignored.
An American Dental Association (ADA) survey found that 92 percent of dentists report seeing patients with chronic bad breath. According to that survey, 63 percent of dentists indicate that lack of good oral hygiene is the leading cause of bad breath.
Here are some of the other causes of bad breath:
Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can contribute to breath odor. Brushing, flossing and mouthrinse will only mask the odor temporarily. The odors will continue until the body eliminates the food.
If you don't brush and floss daily, particles of food can remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which causes bad breath. Dentures that are not cleaned properly can also harbor odor-causing bacteria and food particles. Be sure to remove dentures at night and clean them thoroughly before replacing them in your mouth the next morning.
Bad breath, or a bad taste in the mouth, is also one of the warning signs of periodontal (gum) disease. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, the stickly, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. The bacteria that cause periodontal diseases can irritate the gums and bone. If gum disease is not treated, the bone supporting the teeth is destroyed and healthy teeth may be lost.
Xerostomia, better known as dry mouth, can also cause bad breath. Dry mouth occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause odor. Dry mouth can be a side effect of many medications, salivary gland problems, or continuously breathing through the mouth.
Tobacco products cause bad breath. Whether you smoke cigarettes or cigars or use smokeless tobacco, they all cause bad breath. Tobacco users are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease and are also at greater risk for developing oral cancer.
Bad breath may be a sign of a medical disorder. Sometimes a sinus infection, postnasal drip or other respiratory tract infection can cause bad breath.
Diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbances, liver and kidney ailments can also cause bad breath.
What can you do to fight bad breath? The ADA has these recommendations to maintain good oral health and reduce bad breath:
*Brush your teeth twice daily with an ADA-accepted fluoride toothpaste, and clean between your teeth once a day.
*Brush your tongue daily, too.
*Rinse with an ADA-accepted mouth rinse.
*Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings.
*If you think you have bad breath, keep a log of the foods you eat.
*Keep your mouth moist by increasing your fluid intake or using sugarless candy.
*Ask your dentist if any of the medications you take dry your mouth, which can be a factor in bad breath.
*Use humidifiers during the heating season to put moisture in the air.
*If you use tobacco products, ask your dentist or physician for tips to kick the habit.
If you think you have a problem with bad breath, talk to your dentist. Dentists are trained in dental school about the oral causes of bad breath and how to treat it. Regular checkups will allow your dentist to detect any problems such as gum disease, a dry mouth or other disorders that may be the cause. Maintaining good oral health and scheduling regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath. If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy and that the odor is not of oral origin, you may be referred to your family physician.
Dr. Mascola is a prosthodontist practicing in Jericho, N.Y., and president of the ADA. The American Dental Association is a Chicago-based organization representing 143,000 member dentists.
