A breath of fresh air

Bad breath (halitosis) is a common problem which often comes from the activity of bacteria in the mouth, or as a result of congestion in the colon. Although there is no way of knowing for sure, most adults probably suffer from bad breath occasionally, with perhaps a quarter suffering on a regular basis.

Harley Street dentist Farid Monibi (76harleystreet.com), talks through his advice on its symptoms, what causes it and offers tips on how to get fresher breath:

What is it?

Halitosis is a term used to describe noticeably unpleasant odors exhaled in breathing – whether the smell is from an oral source or not. It is caused by naturally occurring bacteria which mainly live on the surface of the back third of the tongue. A film forms on the top of the tongue which provides optimum conditions for these types bacteria, which thrive in anaerobic (no oxygen) conditions to grow and this gives off odour- producing substances.

The following contribute to bad breath:

• Highly processed diet – foods that are ‘smoother’ in texture mean that the surface of the tongue is not cleansed naturally unless this is actively removed. The flora on a tongue varies from person to person. The worst symptoms of these often otherwise harmless bacteria are a bad smell.
• Food impaction between the teeth, dental decay and open cavities all increase the amount of bacteria in the mouth, this can lead to bad odour.
• Gum disease - There is some controversial evidence showing that bacteria that grow in gum pockets around teeth below the gumline have a foul smell upon removal, however several studies have also reported no correlation between malodor and periodontal parameter
• Tonsils – Putrefaction from the tonsils is generally considered a minor cause of bad breath. Some people have large tonsils leading to larger amounts of plaque that accumulate on them which attract bacteria
• The stomach is considered a very uncommon source of bad breath. Regurgitation, stomach ulcers, hernias and constipation can all cause gases from the stomach to come up the esophagus bringing with it a foul odour.

The solution?

In order to prevent the production of the sulfur-containing compounds, the bacteria and decaying food debris present on the rear areas of the tongue must be removed. Most people who clean their tongue use a tongue scraper, or a toothbrush. Ergonomic, specially designed tongue cleaners are a lot more effective (collecting and removing the bacterial coating) than toothbrushes.

Mouthwashes can chemically remove the film from the tongue and can help prevent build up. Over the counter mouthwashes such as chlorhexidine gluconate can change the bacterial flora count but side effects can include deterioration in taste sensation and can stain your teeth. Equally, mints, mouth sprays or gum, may only temporarily mask the odors created by the bacteria on the tongue, but can not cure bad breath because they do not remove the source of the bad breath.

Maintaining proper oral hygiene including daily tongue cleaning, brushing, flossing and periodic visits to dentists and hygienists are important. Flossing is particularly important in removing food debris and bacterial plaque from between the teeth, especially at the gum line. Dentures should be properly cleaned and soaked overnight in antibacterial solution.

To book an appointment with Farid or one of their London dentists who take a special interest in fresh breath and general oral health, email info@76harleystreet.com.