 December 2007 Bad breath (halitosis) is a common embarrassment that in the worst cases can derail careers and spoil love lives. It can also be a sign of underlying dental problems, such as gum disease and dry mouth, or medical disorders such as sinus infection or diabetes.Those with bad breath may be unaware of the problem, while paradoxically others may erroneously believe that they are afflicted. Essential for preventing or reducing bad breath, notes the American Dental Association (ADA), is maintaining good oral health, including daily brushing and flossing. Brushing or scraping the tongue also helps, and regular professional cleaning and checkups are essential. Your dentist can help locate sources of bad breath. Tobacco products can cause bad breath, another reason to kick the habit. Foods such as onions and garlic lead to bad breath after digestion, not in the mouth, so cutting back on those foods can reduce problems. Some medications prescribed for unrelated ailments can also be a cause of mouth odor. Ordinary mouthwashes are general cosmetic, the ADA says, without a longlasting affect on bad breath. Places in the mouth where food particles can collect and provide an environment where bacteria can thrive are a main source of mouth malodors. Pockets in the gums around the teeth caused by periodontal disease are vulnerable, and other types of oral inflammation can also cause bad breath. Treating underlying causes helps clear the breath, and various anti-bacterial prescription mouth washes can help the process. Jon L. Richter, DMD, Ph.D., a dentist in Philadelphia specializing in periodontics and founder of the Center for Breath Disorders, has developed the ProFresh treatment. The therapy uses chlorine dioxide, a safe and powerful antibacterial and deodorizing agent used in municipal water purification systems worldwide. Dr. Richter confirmed research indicating that most bacteria causing bad breath are located on the back of the tongue. ProFresh penetrates tissue and mucus in the mouth to kill these germs, and it also eliminates bad breath odors. |
