Jarred K. Donald, DDS
16631 Coit Rd #114
Dallas, TX 75248
972-818-4300
888-49-SMILE
Patient Education - General Dentist Information in Dallas
Bad Breath (halitosis)
Bad breath is a common affliction with many people. When it advances or
doesn't go away, it becomes known as chronic halitosis.
Bad breath is caused by decaying particles of food and
bacteria that pass into your bloodstream and to the lungs, where odor
is emitted from breathing.
While people spend lots of money on products that treat the
symptoms of bad breath, they often neglect to take steps to address the
root causes of bad breath-such as bacteria, and decaying food particles
remaining in spaces between the teeth, on the gums and on the tongue.
In many cases, good daily oral hygiene, including brushing, flossing
and rinsing, can keep bad breath in check. This also applies to
denture-wearers.
Other conditions, such as gum disease, can cause persistent
bad breath. Under normal conditions, your saliva acts to cleanse your
mouth of the particles that can decay and later cause bad breath.
People with a condition known as dry mouth, in which saliva production
is diminished, can sometimes suffer from bad breath. Of course, if you
eat certain kinds of food (like garlic and onions), take certain kinds
of medications, or smoke cigarettes or cigars, you may also experience
symptoms of bad breath.
In some cases, persistent bad breath may be a sign that you
have a more serious health problem, including a gastrointestinal,
respiratory or sinus problem.
In most cases, over-the-counter mouthwashes and rinses will
temporarily freshen breath, but only mask the root cause. The American
Dental Association acknowledges the effectiveness of some
anti-microbial mouth rinses that are shown to reduce plaque and
gingivitis. Good oral health habits can contribute to reducing and
eliminating halitosis: brushing and flossing daily as well as regular
professional cleanings performed by our office.
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