West Coast Dental Clinics

Halitosis












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Bad Breath

Halitosis is also referred to as oral malodor, but most of us know it as, quite simply, "bad breath." Even though it's a comparatively minor health problem, bad breath can be distressing and a bit of a social handicap. We spend millions each year on efforts to freshen our breath with various gums, sprays and mouthwashes - most of which really don't help all that much.




























Studies have shown that about 85% of patients suffering from halitosis have an oral condition as the source.  If a person has healthy teeth and gums (i.e. no cavities, periodontitis, or abscesses), the next most common source of oral malodour is the tongue. Bacteria which produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) have been found to congregate on the tongue, especially the posterior one third. These bacteria can be found on the surface of the tongue, throat, teeth, and periodontal pockets in the gums.
 
What causes bad breath?

There are just as many causes of bad breath as there are sources of bacteria in the mouth. Halitosis may be caused by the following:

certain foods
The things you eat contribute largely to your oral health care, including your breath. Items such as garlic and onions, or any food, are absorbed into the bloodstream, become transferred into the lungs, and become expelled in the air you breathe. Until that food becomes eliminated by the body, the potential for it affecting a person's breath is present.

poor oral health care
Without proper and consistent brushing and flossing, and routine examinations by your dentist, food remains in the mouth, which is a breeding ground for bacteria, which, in turn, causes odorous breath. Food that is allowed to collect on the teeth, gums, and tongue may cause the gums to rot, which causes an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth.

improper cleaning of dentures
Dentures that are not cleaned properly may be collecting bacteria and remaining food particles which cause bad breath.

periodontal disease
One of the primary symptoms of this gum disease is foul, odorous breath, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. This condition requires immediate care by an oral health professional.

xerostomia (dry mouth)
This condition is often a large contributor to halitosis. Characterized by a significant decrease in saliva production, the mouth is unable to cleanse itself and remove debris and particles left behind by food. Xerostomia may be caused by certain medications, a salivary gland disorder, or by continuously breathing through the mouth, instead of the nose.






tobacco products
Not only do tobacco products such as cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and snuff stain the teeth and put the body at risk for a host of diseases, they also contribute to bad breath. Tobacco users also are at an increased risk for the following:

  • periodontal disease
  • a loss of taste abilities
  • irritated gums

a medical condition
Bad breath may be an indicator or symptom of any of the following conditions. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Consult your physician for a diagnosis:

  • a respiratory infection (infection of the nose, windpipe, or lungs; chronic bronchitis; postnasal drip; chronic sinusitis)
  • diabetes
  • a gastrointestinal disorder
  • a liver or kidney disorder

How do you know if you have bad breath?

You do not really want to always rely on your best friend telling you, do you? So here are some useful pointers.

  • Lick the inner surface of your wrist. Wait a few seconds and sniff the licked area. Is there an odour?
  • Do you smoke at times other than mealtimes when the odour is diluted by food, drink and saliva?
  • Do your gums look swollen or puffy and do they bleed when you brush them?
  • Does your dentist or hygienist comment on your gum disease (gingivitis) and suggest more efficient brushing and flossing?

Oral health treatment
Treatment begins with a complete oral examination and health history, you may have an "odor-meter" test done. This test can accurately measure the volatile sulfur gases and the extent of a halitosis problem.

Periodontal disease and /or cavities should be treated and repaired. Oral infections must be eliminated or impacted teeth may need to be removed.

Good oral hygiene must be stressed, including cleaning the teeth and tongue. Once the oral infection is treated and cured, mouthrinses and toothpastes may have some effectiveness in managing oral odor. Ask the West Coast Dental Centres' oral health professionals for a product that may be helpful to you.




























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