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FAQ
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What should I do if I have bad breath?
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Bad breath (halitosis) can be
an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Many of us may not
realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time
to time, especially in the morning. |

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There are various reasons one
may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is
due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially the back of
the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the
tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent. |
What may cause bad breath?
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Morning time Saliva flow
almost stops during sleep and its reduced cleansing action
allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath.
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Certain foods Garlic, onions, etc. Foods containing
odor-causing compounds enter the blood stream; they are
transferred to the lungs, where they are exhaled.
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Poor oral hygiene habits Food particles remaining in the mouth
promote bacterial growth.
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Periodontal (gum) disease Colonies of bacteria and food debris
residing under inflamed gums.
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Dental cavities and improperly fitted dental appliances May
also contribute to bad breath.
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Dry mouth (Xerostomia) May be caused by certain medications,
salivary gland problems, or continuous mouth breathing.
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Tobacco products Dry the mouth, causing bad breath.
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Dieting Certain chemicals called ketones are released in the
breath as the body burns fat.
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Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals Drinking water and
chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria away.
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Certain medical conditions and illnesses Diabetes, liver and
kidney problems, chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and
pneumonia are several conditions that may contribute to bad
breath.
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Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of
bad breath. Also, review your current medications, recent
surgeries, or illnesses with you dentist.
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What can I do to prevent bad
breath? |
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Practice good oral
hygiene Brush at least twice a day with an ADA approved
fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove
food debris and plaque from in between the teeth and under
the gumline. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the
tongue and reach the back areas. Replace your toothbrush
every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable
bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your
mouth in the morning.
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See your dentist
regularly Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year.
If you have or have had periodontal disease, your dentist
will recommend more frequent visits.
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Stop smoking/chewing
tobacco Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break
the habit.
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Drink water frequently
Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away
bacteria.
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Use mouthwash/rinses Some
over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution
to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask your dentist about
antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but
also kill the germs that cause the problem.
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In most cases, your dentist
can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that your
mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your dentist may
refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor
and an appropriate treatment plan.
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