What are the treatment options for bad breath (halitosis)?
-
American Dental Association answered:The best way to prevent bad breath is to brush and floss daily. If you don't brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, on the tongue and around the gums can rot, leaving an unpleasant odor.
Bad breath can also be caused by the following:
- Dry mouth (xerostomia), which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases.
- Tobacco products. If you use tobacco, ask your dentist for tips on kicking the habit.
- Medical disorders such as a local infection in the respiratory tract, chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney ailment.
Mouthwashes are generally cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, see your dentist. Maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath. Schedule regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup. If you think you have constant bad breath, keep a log of the foods you eat and make a list of medications you take. Some medications may play a role in creating mouth odors. Let your dentist know if you've had any surgery or illness since your last appointment.
Helpful? 1 person found this helpfulThe best way to prevent bad breath is to brush and floss daily. If you don't brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, on the tongue and... More -
Dr. De Vizio of Colgate answered:There are many options for treating bad breath (halitosis). Home care includes proper dental hygiene such as brushing, flossing, using a tongue scraper, and using mouthwash. There are many over-the-counter preparations to assist you. Gums, and mints formulated for bad breath, provide temporary relief. Chewing fresh parsley after eating can be another temporary treatment. If you have periodontal disease, or tooth decay, a dentist can treat these conditions. Stopping smoking will improve your breath.
Helpful? 1 person found this helpfulThere are many options for treating bad breath (halitosis). Home care includes proper dental hygiene such as brushing, flossing, using a tongue scraper, and using mouthwash. There are many over-the-counter preparations to assist you. Gums, and mints... More -
Dr. Tom Berry answered:Good oral hygiene is the first line of defense against bad breath. Brushing of the teeth and tongue twice daily along with flossing is also very important. Along those lines, schedule regular visits with your dentist for professional cleanings. If you wear dentures, remove them at night for cleaning. Beyond that, mouthwashes can offer temporary relief. Be careful of foods or tobacco products that can contribute to bad breath.
Good oral hygiene is the first line of defense against bad breath. Brushing of the teeth and tongue twice daily along with flossing is also very important. Along those lines, schedule regular visits with your dentist for professional cleanings. If... More -
Joan Haizlip answered:The treatment options will depend on the cause of the bad breath (halitosis). Your dentist can determine if the bad breath (halitosis) is caused from poor oral hygiene or gum disease. He will refer you to a specialist, a periodontist, if the source of the bad breath is from gum disease. The periodontist may do a special cleaning of the gums to remove bacteria and plaque.
To prevent further bad breath, your dentist may recommend a special mouthwash to control the growth of the bacteria.The treatment options will depend on the cause of the bad breath (halitosis). Your dentist can determine if the bad breath (halitosis) is caused from poor oral hygiene or gum disease. He will refer you to a specialist, a periodontist, if... More
