No one wants to have bad breath. It is not only offensive to others, a ‘rotten’ breath odor reflects poorly on your oral (and even overall) hygiene commitment. Bad breath sends others a negative message about you. And once you subject them to it, others may permanently associate you with this breath odor.
Contrary to what most believe, bad breath is not caused by certain foods we eat. It typically results from sulfur compounds which are released during the digestive process. These sulfur compounds are released from the back of the tongue and throat, giving off an unpleasant odor.
While some companies promote products to conquer bad breath, many merely mask the problem or even cause more harm. Home remedies are especially risky, as many can actually make the problem worse, such as these that can actually contribute to bad breath:
• Execessive use of mouthwash – This produces a sloughy, smelly tissue that causes odor to become even worse.
• Breath mints – Long-lasting sugar candies create acid attacks in the mouth, increasing cavity risk.
• Tongue piercing – Tongue jewelry allows you to harbor more bacteria on your tongue, adding to the chance for bad breath.
• Alcoholic beverages – Saliva helps to remove oral bacteria. Alcohol is drying to oral tissues and reduces the amount of saliva in your mouth.
• Mint chew tobacco – Smokeless tobacco causes gums to recede, increasing the chance of losing the bone and fibers that hold teeth in position.
• Intestinal cleansing methods – Bad breath does not originate from the stomach, making this an ineffective method.
The best way to eliminate bad breath? Have a dental exam to determine the true factors that are contributing to breath odor, such as gum disease, dry mouth or certain medical conditions. Once these issues are resolved, look forward to a fresh mouth and worry-free closeness!
Our office is open and accepting new patients! Please send us an email using the form below or please call us at 586-739-2155.
