Heather Lawson-Myers - TOOTH TALK
BAD BREATH (halitosis), one of our worst enemies, has several causes. The main cause is the retention of bacteria in the mouth. Improper or inadequate brushing and flossing will lead to mouth odour. In this case bacteria remain in the mouth undisturbed and gives off an odour.
This bacteria accumulates between and around the teeth and also on the tongue. Most of us brush daily, some of us floss daily also but very few of us brush our tongues. The same bacteria that is brushed away on surfaces that the toothbrush can reach remains between the teeth when we do not floss. Flossing once daily is enough to decrease the bacterial accumulation between the teeth. The tongue is covered with hairlike projections. If not brushed or scraped away daily the odorous bacteria remains and causes halitosis.
Bacteria will accumulate on dentures daily. Denture wearers should clean their mouths and dentures daily. First, rinse your dentures then use a soft bristled brush and a denture cleaning agent. Brush the denture thoroughly but avoid damaging the plastic parts or metal clasps.
Bad breath is one of the warning signs of periodontal (gum) disease. This disease is caused by plaque, the sticky colourless film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth. The bacteria creates toxins that irritate the gums. In the advanced stage of the disease the gums, bone and other structures that support the teeth become damaged. With regular dental checkups your dentist can detect and treat periodontal disease early.
Smoking causes bad breath, stains the teeth and irritates gum tissues. Tobacco users are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease and are at greater risk for developing oral cancer.
As we age the saliva flow decreases. A decreased saliva flow may also be due to the intake of certain medication, salivary gland problems or mouth breathing. Dry mouth or xerostomia is another cause of halitosis. One simple way of reducing this condition is using sugarless candy, gum or increasing your fluid intake.
Believe it or not, hunger causes halitosis also. Persons who go for long periods of time without eating will have bad breath. Dieters beware!
Halitosis may be a sign of a medical disorder, such as local infection in the respiratory tract (nose, throat, windpipe, lungs), chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney ailment. If your dentist determines that your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to your family doctor or a specialist to determine the cause of bad breath.
Regular checkups will allow your dentist to detect any problems such as gum disease, caries (cavities), a dry mouth or other disorders that may be the cause. Maintaining good oral hygiene, eliminating gum disease and scheduling regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath. Mouthwashes are generally cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath.
Regardless of what may be the cause good oral hygiene is essential. Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily with floss. Brush or scrape your tongue. If you wear dentures
be sure to remove them at night
and clean them thoroughly before replacing them the
next morning.
Dr. Heather Lawson-Myers, President, Jamaica Dental Association.
