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Bad Breath
It is often more difficult to determine the origin of chronic or persistent oral malodor or halitosis. The underlying cause can be in the oral cavity, the nose or sinus, the tonsils, or originate from a systematic health problem such as diabetes or gastric ulcer. While approximately 10 - 15 percent of chronic halitosis is linked to serious disease, diabetes and sinusitis are the most common cause. In 85% of cases of halitosis the oral cavity is the contributor. In searching for the offending odor first it must be determined that there is now gum disease or tooth decay present that is responsible for the malodor. It has been suggested that a likely source of bad breath is bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds which are gases with very unpleasant odors even at very low concentrations. Treatments are currently being marketed with the goal of eliminating the bacteria through the use of mouth rinses, toothpastes, and tongue conditioning gel. We currently carry a line of products that is promoted to be effective in killing the gram negative bacteria and neutralizing the extra volatile sulfur compounds. If you are plagued with chronic bad breath and wish to try these new products please advise us during your next visit. John
V. Reitz, D.D.S., F.A.G.D. Copyright
2008. All rights reserved. |
We
have all experienced temporary bad breath caused by eating certain foods
such as onions or garlic. After the food is digested, small odor molecules
circulate the blood and release gasses into the lungs. Eventually the odor
stops after all the gases are eliminated. A similar odor can occur from
certain prescribed drugs and during menstruation. Fortunately these are
transitory and require no treatment.