The Tribune

By Dr Sparkman Ferguson

Registrar of the Bahamas Dental Council

Bad breath is an embarrassing problem. Most people who have it are usually unaware of it. It is not an easy subject to broach with strangers, and sometimes even difficult with people whom you know.

A discussion, however, is easy in a professional environment. The difficulty is getting people to the dentist to have the condition evaluated.

Most bad breath starts in your mouth, and there are many possible causes. They include:

1. Eating foods that contain spices, onions and garlic

2. Smoking and the use of tobacco products

3. A dry mouth which can be caused by some medications, some diseases, or that naturally occurs while asleep eventually leading to “morning breath”

4. Infections in the mouth

5. Nose, throat and sinus conditions

6. Chronic reflux of stomach acids (GERD)

7. Poor dental hygiene

The majority of bad breath is caused by poor dental hygiene. The level of odour is deepened if several of the causes of bad breath clash. So in practical terms, try to imagine a person with poor dental hygiene who is suffering from GERD, smokes,and suffers from post nasal drip from the sinuses. Such an individual will likely struggle with daily bad breath, because it emanates from several sources.

Notwithstanding the aforementioned, most bad breath is caused by poor dental hygiene.

What to do about bad breath?

1. Seek professional dental help

A dental visit is the first line of defence in combatting bad breath. Such a visit will ascertain the possible cause/causes of the condition. With that information, the dental professional can set out to assist in eliminating the concern. Such persons always require a thorough mouth cleansing followed by home care instructions.

1. Practice good home care

Dental home care is sadly lacking in individuals with ordinary bad breath. A four-minute brushing regimen (including tongue cleaning) coupled with nightly flossing is a good start.

1. Correct dental diseases

Dental diseases such as cavities and/or gum disease contribute to bad breath. A complete “clean-up” of all mouth issues is an important part of ensuring all the bases are covered.

Conclusions:

If an individual has ‘’ordinary bad breath”, correcting dental diseases and practicing good home care usually produces a “cure” for their bad breath. If this basic approach fails to render the mouth free of odour, it is a signal that a deeper concern is causing the problem. At this point, a more detailed examination with medical history is indicated. Such an examination can uncover medical reasons for bad breath. In the case of a medical condition contributing to bad breath, a medical consultation with the appropriate specialist will be the correct path.

Dental tip: If you want to know the true state of your breath, always consult a dentist. If a dentist is unavailable, ask only a trusted friend.