Heather Lawson-Myers - TOOTH TALK Dear Dr. Lawson-Myers,
I am living with a problem that is not easy to cope with when dealing with the public.
I am having a terrible case of bad breath. I had a terrible sore mouth when I was a child. I have done extractions, filling and cleaning but the problem still remains and I am often told that I have a beautiful smile which is true because my teeth looks very white but the smell from my mouth says something different.
I am also wondering if this has to do with my tongue because it tends to be white most of the times. Can this problem be helped. I am very desperate. Is there anything that can help my situation. Thank you for any help offered.
I am, etc.
S.K.
DEAR S.K.
Halitosis (bad breath) may be due to any number of reasons. Conditions in the mouth that result in halitosis are plaque and calculus accumulation, periodontal (gum) disease and numerous large cavities.
Plaque is the soft, sticky substance that forms in the mouth daily. It is easily removed with proper brushing and flossing. However, if left undisturbed for more than two to three days it becomes a hard substance known as calculus.
The dentist or hygienist can only remove calculus in the dental office. Brushing with a medium or hard bristle toothbrush will prevent proper cleaning of the teeth as the bristles are not flexible enough to slide under the gumline and around the teeth.
Teeth that are not flossed daily will be susceptible to plaque and calculus accumulation between the teeth. The tongue has hair-like projections that facilitate plaque accumulation, so it must be brushed daily too.
Periodontal disease is the inflammation of the hard and soft tissue supporting the teeth (gum and bone). Signs and symptoms of gum disease include bleeding gums, bad breath, gums that have moved away from the teeth and teeth that appear longer than they used to. Periodontal disease is progressive, so the earlier it is detected and treated the better the results of treatment.
A thorough dental examination will determine if halitosis is due to conditions in the mouth. If you are in good dental health then a trip to the medical doctor is advised. Bad breath may also be due to conditions such as sinusitis, stomach problems and failing to eat on time.
Dr. Heather-Dawn Lawson Myers is the president of the Jamaica Dental Association.
