Fresh Breath Therapy

Fresh Breath Therapy Addresses the Underlining
Issues to Get Rid of Your Bad Breath

In technical language, bad breath is called Halitosis. Often, people in our social circle, clients, work associates or even family members hesitate to bring up the topic. Even our mates hesitate to bring up the topic of bad breath- it’s a very personal matter. Knowing that our breath isn’t fresh robs us of our confidence and our social success. Often we don’t find out till it’s too late.

What causes bad breath?

Mouth odours caused by foods that we eat.
Oral diseases and conditions.
Alcohol and tobacco.
Diseases and medical conditions.
Hormonal changes and metabolic conditions.
Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy and menstruation.
Bacteria.
Dry mouth (not enough saliva).
Stress.

Bad breath is caused by a variety of substances called volatile sulfur compounds (VSC’s) such as Hydrogen Sulphide and Mercaptans that are exhaled when we breathe. It may also be caused by bacterial by-products. Bad breath can also be caused by certain diseases such as Diabetes, Kidney failure, Sjogrens disease, Chronic stress, Periodontal or gum disease, infected and decayed teeth, infected tonsils, Trimethylaminuria, post nasal drip, hiatus hernia, constipation or digestive problems, Esophageal reflux (throwing up) seasonal allergies and sinus problems – even certain medications can cause bad breath. That’s quite a long list!

Here are some practical tips:

Commit to flossing first, and then brush correctly after every meal.
Use toothpaste like Colgate Total (which has Triclosan and Gantrez to help).
A Sonicare toothbrush is also highly recommended especially if you have signs of periodontal disease.
Use a tongue cleaner for your tongue. You may want to use this more frequently if you have severe halitosis.
If you decide to quit smoking, tell us. We can help.
Sometimes tooth decay, failing or broken fillings, partially erupted wisdom teeth, old failing crowns and bridges can also contribute to bad breath. Choosing to treat these can result in an improvement in your oral health.
If you wear partial or full dentures, ask us how to keep them clean and hygienic to eliminate the embarrassment of bad odours.
Visit your Dental Hygienist as recommended to remove plaque and calculus (tartar). It is a known fact that plaque and tartar contributes to the problem of bad breath.
Avoid meals with odour-causing foods before important meetings or when you know you won’t have access to brushing materials.
For systemic diseases, we can refer you to your family physician or a specialist.
We offer a Breath-Rx kit (only available through dental offices) which includes a special paste, mouth rinse and oral spray that works to combat the odor causing bacteria. It also comes with two ribbon-type tongue cleaners for your convenience. Patients like you have seen a difference. We offer this product to our patients at cost forthe benefit and convenience of our patients.