Bad breath (halitosis) affects, and embarrasses, everyone at some point in life. Smelly foods, like fish, garlic, and curry, have oils that travel to the lungs and lead to bad breath. Other causes include dry mouth, postnasal drip or sinus problems, certain medications, smoking, gingivitis, tooth decay, and volatile sulfur compounds, or VSFs.
You can avoid smelly foods, drink water to moisten your mouth, medicate your sinus issues, and stop smoking, but if halitosis persists, you may need professional help. Halitosis is the third most common reason that people visit the dentist. In up to 90% of cases, bad breath starts in the mouth. Transient bad breath can come and go, but persistent bad breath is a more serious problem that affects about a quarter of adults.
Volatile Sulfur Compounds
Sulfur smells bad, and oral bacteria are notorious for producing volatile sulfur compounds, or VSFs. These smelly compounds are at their stinkiest after the mouth has been closed for a while, and this explains morning breath. About 80% of bad breath originates on the tongue. Anaerobic bacteria flourish under the tongue, and anaerobic respiration of these bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds, which smell like spoiled eggs.
Treating Bad Breath
At your visit to Dental Associates of Corona, we’ll thoroughly evaluate your oral health. Should you show signs of gum disease, tooth decay, or other dental problems, your dentist will explain his findings and treatment options. If your mouth is healthy and VSFs are to blame for your bad breath, we may recommend professional-strength halitosis mouthwash, toothpaste, and breath spray. Daily use of a tongue scraper, during your oral hygiene routine, will also help remove malodorous bacteria from your mouth.
Call Dental Associates of Corona today at 951-273-9580 to schedule a consultation, checkup, and cleaning.
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