Bad Breath

“I didn’t know I had bad breath, I wish someone told me earlier” 

What causes bad breath? 

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is a common issue caused by various factors, most of which originate in the mouth. The primary cause of bad breath is the buildup of bacteria on the teeth, gums, and tongue, which produce sulfur compounds that have a foul odour. Poor oral hygiene, such as infrequent brushing and flossing, allows food particles to linger in the mouth, providing a breeding ground for these bacteria. Additionally, conditions like dry mouth, where saliva production is reduced, can contribute to bad breath because saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria. Certain foods, like garlic and onions, and habits like smoking or tobacco use, can also lead to unpleasant breath. In some cases, underlying health issues such as gum disease, sinus infections, or gastrointestinal problems can contribute to chronic bad breath. 

How can it be treated? 

Treating bad breath starts with establishing and maintaining good oral hygiene. This means brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day to remove food particles and plaque that can harbour odour-causing bacteria. Don’t forget to clean your tongue, as bacteria can accumulate there and contribute to bad breath; a tongue scraper or brushing your tongue can be effective. Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are also essential, as your dental hygienist can remove hardened plaque and calculus and assess for any underlying conditions like gum disease that may be contributing to the problem. Staying hydrated is important as well since dry mouth can exacerbate bad breath by reducing saliva flow, which normally helps cleanse the mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum or mints can stimulate saliva production, keeping your mouth moist and fresh. Additionally, there are chewable probiotics called Prodentis from BioGaia that help eliminate bad breath. If certain foods or habits like smoking are causing bad breath, reducing or eliminating them can make a significant difference. By addressing both the symptoms and the root causes, you can effectively manage and eliminate bad breath.

Treatment at Toothlife

At Toothlife Studios, we can use a saliva DNA testing service to determine what bacteria are causing the bad breath to occur. Saliva DNA testing is an innovative tool that can help identify the root causes of bad breath by analyzing the specific bacteria present in your mouth. This type of testing works by collecting a small sample of saliva, which is then analyzed in a lab to detect the DNA of various oral bacteria. By pinpointing the exact bacterial strains contributing to halitosis, your dental professional can develop a more targeted and effective treatment plan. Additionally, your dental team will be able to provide you with specific dental product recommendations that will help alleviate bad breath. This might include specific antimicrobial rinses, toothpaste, probiotics, or tailored oral hygiene routines aimed at reducing the harmful bacteria in your mouth.