Halitosis (Bad Breath)

What causes bad breath?
Most bad breath (halitosis) comes from something in the mouth. Food sticks
between your teeth, around the gums and on your tongue. If you don't brush
and floss your teeth every day, this food can rot. The rotten bits of food
cause a bad smell in your mouth. Rotten food also helps bacteria to grow in
your mouth. This bacteria can cause gum disease, or gingivitis. Gingivitis
also causes bad breath.
The things you eat and drink affect your breath. Bad breath may also be a
sign of a health problem.

What can I do to prevent bad breath?
* Brush your teeth at least 2 times every day, using a fluoride toothpaste.
Be sure to brush along the gumline, as well as all tooth surfaces. Each time
you brush your teeth, use your toothbrush to clean the surface of your
tongue.
* Floss your teeth at least once a day to remove food from between your
teeth.
* Eat more fruits and vegetables every day. Eat less meat.
* Avoid certain foods that cause you to have bad breath. These foods might
include onions, garlic and pastrami. Alcoholic beverages often cause bad
breath.
* Avoid using tobacco products. Any kind of tobacco can cause halitosis.
* Sometimes a dry mouth has an unpleasant odor. If your mouth is dry, you
can suck on sugar-free mints, chew sugar-free gum or drink water.
* Most mouthwashes do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you
use a mouthwash, swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before
spitting it out.
* If you wear removable dentures, take them out at night. Brush the dentures
and soak them overnight in a disinfecting solution. Removable braces should
also be cleaned. Follow the directions of your dentist.
* See your dentist twice a year to have your teeth cleaned.
* If you still have bad breath, see your family doctor to find out what is
causing it. (AAFP)