How do I get rid of bad breath?
There are many helpful ways to disguise halitosis, also known as bad breath. But to cure yourself of bad breath, it is beneficial for your long-term health to know the cause. Your dentist is often the best point of contact to seek a professional assessment and advice.
Three common causes of bad breath are:
1. Poor habits – not brushing or flossing your teeth and smoking or chewing tobacco can promote bacterial growth between the teeth and on the gums causing staining, irritation and inflammation.
2. Dry mouth (xerostomia) – saliva is needed to moisten and clean the mouth. A lack of saliva in the mouth increases the chance of cavities and gum diseases and infections. Dry mouth may be the consequence of persistent mouth breathing, salivary gland issues or a side effect of some medications.
3. Health problems – chronic bad breath may signal more serious illnesses or diseases such as periodontal disease caused by an accumulation of plaque on the teeth and around gums. There are also other diseases and illnesses that may appear unrelated but may result in bad breath including respiratory tract infections, chronic sinus infections and liver or kidney issues.
Saliva is key to the health and condition of your teeth and mouth. And since saliva is made when you chew, chewing sugar-free gum is one of the most effective ways to stimulate the production of saliva. The saliva essentially washes away food particles and bacteria, protecting teeth from decay. It is recommended by the Australian Dental Association to chew sugar-free gum for at least 20 minutes after every meal as a natural way to stimulate saliva and get rid of bad breath.
To read more about the benefits of using sugar-free chewing gum, click here.
This was posted by:
Dr Markijan Hupalo – Prosthodontist
Originally from Brisbane, Dr Hupalo is a Sydney-based Prosthodontist. He obtained his primary degree from Queensland University and graduated with Honours in 1988. He commenced his dental practicing career as a Dental Officer with the Royal Australian Air Force, where he worked for almost ten years. In 1996 he completed his military service and returned to Sydney to begin specialist training in 1996. He gained specialist registration in 1999 after graduating from the specialist clinical training programme in prosthodontics at the University of Sydney. He has a specialist private practice in Sydney with an international reputation for quality dental solutions and patient care. Apart from the traditional dental restorative solutions, Dr Hupalo has a special interest in adhesive dentistry and conservative dental solutions. Dr Hupalo holds a teaching appointment with the University of Sydney and is involved in Prosthodontic education at the undergraduate and post graduate level. He is an advisor to tertiary institutions, industry and is a consultant to the legal profession. Visit: www.sydneyprosthodontics.com
