News

Halitosis (Bad Breath)

Halitosis (bad breath) is an unpleasant, embarrassing, condition that affects millions of Americans. Many people realize that smoking, dry mouth, dieting, not brushing and flossing your teeth, and eating foods like garlic and onions will cause bad breath. However, many patients are unaware that a medical condition or medications may be causing their bad breath. Infections of the respiratory tract, sinusitis, post-nasal drip, bronchitis, diabetes, liver and/or kidney ailments and the medications taken to combat these conditions can (and usually do) cause bad breath. It is not uncommon to refer a patient of record to his or her physician if their mouth is healthy but a foul odor remains.

Dry mouth (Xerostomia) occurs when saliva flow decreases. It can be caused by age, medications, salivary gland problems, or continuously breathing through the mouth. Saliva is necessary to wash away food debris that may cause odors. You can lessen the effects of dry mouth by drinking lots of water and avoiding sweets, tobacco, alcohol and caffeine.

Commonly, people complain of foul odors after eating garlic and onions and may not realize that brushing, flossing, and mouthwash will only mask the odor temporarily. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. The odors will linger until the body completely eliminates the food.

If the odor is not caused by a medical issue, brushing and flossing daily will greatly help to reduce particles of food that remain in the mouth collecting bacteria which cause bad breath. It is important to remember that all surfaces of the mouth should be cleaned including the tongue, gums, and palate. Floss should be used to remove food debris that collects and rots between the teeth, leaving an unpleasant odor. Mouthwashes usually only mask odors and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. Scheduling regular dental visits for a cleaning, exam, and oral cancer screening is essential to reducing bad breath. If you are concerned about your breath, please call the office to speak with Dr. Hopgood. Remember to bring a list of medications, patterns when you suspect the odor is at its worst, and what foods you have eaten.

Advanced Dental Concepts
Richard D. Hopgood D.M.D., M.A.G.D.
296 Lowell Street
Andover, MA 01810
Telephone: 978-475-2431
Email: info@andoverdmd.com