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Fresh Breath Midland

Bad Breath

A feeling of freshness

To test if they have bad breath, many people breathe into their cupped hands, which gives them a false sense that everything is ok.

Bad breath is clinically called halitosis and for some people it is only temporary caused by a meal or occurring first thing in the morning. For others bad breath is an ongoing and embarrassing problem. A large percentage of halitosis is caused by bacteria on the tongue. After brushing and flossing your teeth, use your toothbrush and gently brush the tongue from back to front.

The vast majority of people don’t realise they have bad breath. That’s because before a business meeting or stepping out for a date, they mask their bad breath with mints, gum or spray.

There are a number of reasons someone may have bad breath, including:

  • poor oral hygiene – an infrequent or improper oral hygiene routine of brushing or flossing can leave food particles to decay in the mouth
  • Gum disease
  • Respiratory infections – sinus, throat and lung infections
  • Food, drink and lifestyle choices – cigarettes or tobacco products, coffee, garlic, onions and alcohol
  • Dry mouth – caused by salivary gland problems, medications or “mouth breathing”
  • Systematic illness – including diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, reflux disease and others.

Almost all cases of bad breath involve bacteria that produce odorous Volatile Sulphur Compounds (VSCs). It’s these VSCs that produce hydrogen sulphide (rotten egg smell) and other odour-causing chemicals.

Saliva naturally contains protective enzymes that help kill bacteria, so a dry mouth can be a contributor to bad breath. Drinking water throughout the day to stay hydrated will help stimulate the salivary glands and keep your mouth moisturised.

At Helena Street Dental Midland, we can offer advice on treating your bad breath. The right treatment will depend on the underlying cause.

For more information, visit our practice at 2/42 Victoria Street, Midland WA 6056. You can make an appointment online or speak to one of our friendly staff on (08) 9250 3100.