By Beverly Cabanatan, BS, RDH
Special to the Saipan Tribune
If you have bad breath, this can be a major turn-off when you are trying to meet people. And the main problem is that you may not even be aware that you have bad breath, also known as oral malodor and halitosis. The American Dental Association estimates that 40 percent of adults-85 million Americans-have chronic bad breath. Fortunately the condition is curable once you identify the cause. The three causes are poor oral health habits, medical problems, or lifestyle habits.
The first cause is a dirty mouth. Daily cleaning of the teeth and gums will help prevent the formation of plaque-a sticky deposit made up of harmful bacteria-and in turn will help prevent bad breath. Thorough brushing at least two to three times a day, flossing, and rinsing your mouth is essential. However, research shows that having a clean mouth is not enough to put an end to bad breath.
Because bacteria can get trapped in the fissures of the tongue, tongue deplaquing with tongue scrapers is vital, along with brushing regularly for fresh breath. Tongue scrapers are tools that are designed specifically for the tongue. They provide an even pressure that forces the bacteria, food debris, and dead cells from the pits and crevices of the tongue that a regular toothbrush cannot remove.
Second, medical problems can keep your breath from smelling clean. Research studies has shown that bad breath is linked to conditions such as diabetes, stomach disorders, sinus infections with excessive postnasal drip, and xerostomia (dry mouth), a condition in which there is a decrease in saliva flow. Common medications and drugs can also affect breath odor.
Third, lifestyle habits play a major role in the prevention of bad breath. Tobacco products cause bad breath, stain teeth, reduce one’s ability to taste foods and irritate gum tissues. Tobacco users are more likely to suffer from periodontal disease and are at greater risk for developing oral cancer. If you use tobacco, ask your dental hygienist for tips on kicking the habit.
Along with good oral home care, regular checkups will allow your dentist to detect any problems that may be the cause of halitosis. Your checkups with the dentist should include a prophylaxis-teeth cleaning above and below the gum line by a dental hygienist. Maintaining good oral hygiene, a healthy lifestyle, and scheduling regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath.
(Beverly Cabanatan is the newest addition to the SDA dental clinic's family, she is looking forward to working with the community to improve oral health awareness.)
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