Bad breath is a concern to all of us at one time or another. Although many people believe that oral malodor comes from the stomach, the most common source of bad breath is the deep crevices in the back of the tongue.

Oral malodor can also originate in the areas called periodontal pockets. Naturally occurring Gram-negative bacteria thrive in these hidden areas and form odorous volatile sulfur compound (VSC’s). The VSC’s have a strong rotten egg smell.

Regular dental cleanings and examinations enable doctors to help you maintain long-lasting fresh breath in addition to healthy teeth and gums. There are several ways to manage bad breath concerns both in the dental office and at home. Your dental professional can help you tackle this sensitive issue. Although all of us suffer from bad breath on occasion, chronic bad breath can be indicative of more serious health problems. If you have any concerns about your breath, it is important to ask your dentist or hygienist about them today.

During your dental appointment, our hygienist will scrape your tongue with a tongue scraper and use an anti-bacterial tongue gel to neutralize and remove odor-producing bacteria by-products. Our hygienist will also use scaling instruments to remove the build-up of plaque an calculus (tartar) from your teeth and below the gumline. This aids in reducing the risk of gum (periodontal) disease, which is also a source of oral malodor. Proper daily oral hygiene instructions will also be provided.

In addition to regular brushing and flossing, incorporating tongue scraping into your daily oral hygiene routine is an easy and incredibly effective way to maintain a healthy mouth and long-lasting fresh breath. Daily use of an anti-bacterial toothpaste, mouth rinse, and tongue gel will also help you achieve the freshest breath possible and improve your overall oral health. It’s important to use an alcohol-free mouth rinse, since alcohol can dry your oral soft tissue which ultimately leads to even faster formation of odor producing bacteria. There are also specifically formulated chewing gums and mints the will help refresh your breath, anytime, anywhere. Look for products that contain the essential oils thymol and eucalyptus as anti-bacteria agents. Plus, the products you choose should also include an odor neutralizer, such as zinc chloride, for complete oral malodor management.