Kiss Goodbye to Bad Breath

We have all smelt the characteristic stale odour of bad breath!

Bad breath or halitosis is caused by anaerobic bacteria in the mouth that convert protein to volatile sulphur compounds. These bacteria reside on the tongue and in the gum crevices around the teeth.

What can promote bad breath?
• Gum Disease
• Dry mouth
• Postnasal drip
• Alcohol
• Smoking
• Dairy products – lactose intolerance
• Medications

1. Gum disease or periodontal disease – bacteria around silver fillings, cracked teeth & fillings, in areas where the floss frays , food jams or collects between the teeth and plaque that collects between the teeth ( no flossing) cause gums to bleed and are constant producers of sulphur gases.

Dry Mouth affects the oxygen levels in the oral cavity. In fact, dry mouth decreases oxygen and thus encourages the growth of bacteria that causes bad breath. Dry mouth is a very complex issue and can be caused by:

• Alcohol
• Prescription medication
• Over-the-counter medication
• Dieting and infrequent eating
• Smoking
• Acidic drinks
• Caffeine containing drinks
• Chronic jaw joint pain
• Medical conditions

• Post nasal drip – The making of excess fluid or mucous that gathers in the sinus, back of the throat, nasal passages, tongue and tonsil area creates an excellent food source high in protein for anaerobic bacteria. These bacteria break down the protein in the mucous to make a smelly sulphur compounds.

• Medications – such as antidepressants, high blood pressure medications, antihistamines and medications that contain estrogens and/ or progesterone can cause dry mouth
• Smoking – strangulates the mouth from oxygen thus promoting the overgrowth of those bacteria that causes bad breath. Smoking is a major cause of bad breath, gum disease, heart disease and cancer.

• Certain foods – Dairy products can cause bad breath. Those who are lactose intolerant lack an enzyme (lactase) to breakdown the protein in milk products. Thus, allowing the bacteria in the mouth to break down these proteins which are full of sulphur to produce bad tastes and odour. Onions and garlic are made of similar sulphur compounds produced by bacteria.

• Alcohol – dries the mouth

DIAGNOSIS

There are many causes for bad breath. It is a condition that is quite complex and is often taken too light heartedly. The following assessment tests are recommended

• Periodontal / gum assessment
• Bone loss assessment
• Full dental health assessment
• Oral cancer assessment
• Saliva assessment
• Airway assessment
• Jaw joint health assessment

TREATMENT:
• Customised active maintenance oral hygiene programme
• Tongue cleaning with tongue scraper
• Replace cracked fillings, silver fillings
• Repair chipped or cracked teeth
• Disciplined daily hygiene – electric toothbrush, flossing, interdental cleaners
• Use of toothpaste and mouth rinse recommended by your dentist
• Cease smoking and limit alcohol intake
• Airway assessment often means a referral to an Ear Nose Throat Specialist
• Review medications and then design a suitable oral health maintenance kit

Bad Breath can be eliminated. No longer do you, your loved ones or friends have to feel embarrassed from foul mouth odour.

Dr Leanne Malisano

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