Bad breath has many other names – Halitosis, oral malodor, fetor oris, and foul breath, but they all mean just one thing – an unpleasant odour exhaled in breathing.
Bad breath has a significant negative impact on those who suffer from it, as well as those who have to smell it. Studies show that bad breath is the third most frequent reason for seeking dental treatment behind tooth decay and gum disease.
At The Glenroy Dental Group, we know how sensitive bad breath can be for its sufferers, and we want you to know that we can most often treat it, and with the care our patients deserve.
Adverse side effects of bad breath.
Bad breath comes with many negative consequences. There are pretty much no positives to having halitosis unless you really want to be left alone!
Here are some of the consequences
Poor first impressions. First impressions are critical – they are how a person remembers you, particularly if you have halitosis. An unpleasant first conversation can create a bad impression with potential friends, coworkers, employers, and boyfriends or girlfriends.
Pushing others away. Halitosis can push others away and make them want to keep their distance from you. If you have chronic bad breath, even close friends may slowly drift away from you because they can no longer stand having conversations with you! Worse, it is often difficult to know when you have bad breath, as we usually can’t smell our own breath.
Self-consciousness. Halitosis brings a psychic and social price. People with bad breath are self-conscious about their bad breath, and therefore self-conscious about themselves. It is better to solve bad breath than to become even more self-conscious.
Potential medical issues. Bad breath sulphur gas in your mouth is caused by bacteria consuming protein. Sulphur also attacks soft gum tissue, so the presence of sulphur gas can contribute to gum disease and oral health issues. Halitosis can be the sign of more serious medical problems including heart disease, diabetes, stomach problems and others. If you believe your bad breath is caused by a serious illness, see your doctor immediately!
What causes bad breath?
In nearly 90% of all cases, bad breath originates in the mouth. Because the mouth dries out and becomes inactive at night, the bad breath odour is usually at its worst the first thing in the morning. This morning halitosis — known as “morning breath” — is almost universal in adults, but the act of eating, drinking, brushing, and swallowing usually take care of that bad breath. However, bad breath that persists is beyond this normal range is considered persistent or chronic.
Persistent or chronic bad breath is a more serious condition. This serious condition affects about 25% of the population although the degree varies. It can negatively impact an individual’s social, personal, and business relationships, leading to lowered self-esteem and increased stress.
Beating bad breath
Try the following steps to conquer bad breath at home.
Brush and floss more often. Brush your teeth two times daily, and floss at least once. If you’re concerned about your breath, do both a little more often.
Rinse your mouth out. Rinse once a day with a good mouthwash and stop bad breath where it grows. It can also help your breath if you swish your mouth with plain water after you eat.
Scrape your tongue. The coating that forms on your tongue can be a host for smelly bacteria. Gently brush your tongue with your toothbrush to scrape them off.
Avoid smelly foods. Onions and garlic are big offenders, but brushing doesn’t help as these foods get in the bloodstream and are exhaled through the lungs.
Quit tobacco. Smoking can damage your gums, stain your teeth, and give you bad breath.
Skip after-dinner mints and chew sugarless gum instead. The bacteria in your mouth love sugar, so don’t give it to them!
Keep your gums healthy. Gum disease causes bad breath, so regular checkups and cleans are necessary.
Visit The Glenroy Dental Group. If your bad breath continues despite your best efforts at home, make an appointment with The Glenroy Dental Group. We’ll determine what’s causing your bad breath and recommend steps to eliminate it.
More about bad breath treatment at the Glenroy Dental Group
The Glenroy Dental Group and You
At The Glenroy Dental Group, your health and happiness, and that of your loved ones are our primary goals. We use the most modern technology available and take advantage of the latest dental techniques to ensure that your dental health and appearance are at the highest level. We want you to receive the best possible dental care with no pain or anxiety!
Our offices are conveniently located in the Pascoe Vale Road shopping strip, Glenroy, with plenty of parking space, we are located within an easy walking distance of the Glenroy train station.
Special Offer for New Patients
Exam, Scale & Clean $99
Call (03) 9306 6511 or visit us at 2/830 Pascoe Vale Road in Glenroy.
