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Sandra Kirk
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Grand Dental Studio Office: 405.848-3719

Could Bad Breath Be Ruining Your Image? By Dr. Janice Henry

November 11, 2004 – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma -- Have you ever walked into a meeting or cocktail party and without warning thought, “Do I have bad breath?” Suddenly, you find yourself breathing into your cupped hand trying to get a whiff; still unsure, you search frantically for a mint to mask the smell you feel is there.

The explosion of breath mints and mint-enhanced chewing gum suggests you’re not alone.

The importance of proper oral hygiene can not be underestimated. Studies show that between 25 to 65% of the population experiences persistent bad breath. The impact of bad breath is clear; it can affect a person’s social life, sex life, and career. Fortunately, dentists and hygienists can provide useful advice and tools on how to prevent bad breath and other oral hygiene issues.

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is believed to breed on the tongue especially the base of the tongue and the grooves and fissures at the top of the tongue. Both areas are a haven for bacteria. The bacteria feed on protein matter in the mouth producing a sulfur by-product that produces the offending smell.

Sweets, protein-rich foods, acidic foods, and alcohol all contribute to a bacteria-friendly environment. In addition, certain medicines and tobacco can also have a drying effect in the mouth, fueling the growth of bacteria.

If you are secretly concerned that you may be a victim of halitosis, talk with your dentist or hygienist. They can design a treatment regimen that can help neutralize and eliminate the offending odor. Depending on your particular situation, there is a specialty product called BreathRx which is only sold at participating dentist’s offices. BreathRx provides special toothpaste, mouthwash, tongue tool and dental floss to eliminate bad breath.

Below are some basic oral hygiene tips to not only help prevent bad breath but also help prevent the build up of plaque. Plaque buildup increases as we get older and is the leading culprit of gum disease and eventually tooth loss.

• Brush after meals.
• Use dental floss every day.
• Use mouthwash every day or after meals if bad breath is your main concern.
• Visit your dentist two or more times a year for a thorough professional cleaning. Depending on your case, don’t be surprised if your dentist or hygienist suggests quarterly versus semi-annual cleanings.
• Rinse your mouth after drinking coffee, tea, or red wine to avoid staining and bad breath.
• You may never be too old for braces. Straight teeth and an aligned bite enhance the health of teeth and gums.

Oral hygiene is very important to your overall physical health. Eliminating bad breath helps you feel better about yourself and project a positive image.

Dr. Janice Henry is a dentist with Grand Dental Studio located at 1057 N.W. Grand Boulevard. For more information, visit dentistokc.com. Call 405.848.3719.