Treatment of bad breath
Halitosis commonly known as “bad breath” is a common complaint at the dental surgery. This can effect a person socially, personally or even at work with business relationships.
Halitosis is caused by sulphur gases which come from bacteria in the mouth.
Causes of halitosis:
1. Gum disease (periodontal disease). Often a major cause of bad breath, easily diagnosed by a registered dentist.
2. Tooth decay (dental caries). Again easily diagnosed by a registered dentist.
3. Smoking
4. Diet. Your diet easily effects odours being produced by your mouth, e.g. coffee, garlic, onion, fish, alcohol
5. Dry mouth sufferers
6. Lack of good oral hygiene. e.g. good tooth brushing, flossing, use of interdental brushes, mouthwashes, use of a fluoride toothpaste.
Ways in which you can control halitosis:
1. Have regular dental check ups to eliminate dental diseases.
2. Reduce sugary foods, both quantity and frequency.
3. Brush twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste or you could use Retardex toothpaste which is clinically proven to eliminate bad breath.
4. Use of a antibacterial mouthwash e.g. Retardex Oral Rinse.
5. The daily use of a tongue cleaner removes vast numbers of bacteria often found on the posterior part of the tongue.
6. The use of rechargeable electrical toothbrushes, such as the Oral B Triumph, or the Philips Sonicare Flexcare.
7. The use of a dental water jet which removes bacteria deep between the teeth and also below the gumline. Patients at our practice are benefiting from the availability of the “Cordless Dental Waterjet”.
