Dear Dr. Dave and Dr. Dee, I need to chew gum in order to not have bad breath. But, I can't chew gum all day long. Is there something that I can use to help my breath? Signed, Stinky Smell Dear Stinky Smell, Bad breath can be due to many factors such as food, tobacco, or medical conditions. Chewing gum, mints, and mouthwashes only mask these odors. Possible causes of bad breath or halitosis: 1. If bad breath is due to foods eaten such as onions or garlic, then avoid those items. Once eaten the food is absorbed into the body and the odor expelled by the lungs until the food is eliminated by the body. 2. If you smoke, then quit. There are other important reasons to quit smoking such as cancer risk and lung disease. 3. Bad breath may be noticeable if you have a cold or virus, gum disease, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance, liver or kidney ailment. Once the medical condition has improved, your breath may also. 4. If you have a problem with dry mouth due to medications or breathing through your mouth, then increase fluid intake or chew sugarless gum. After eating, small particles of food collects between the teeth, gums and coats the tongue resulting in rot or bacteria and bad odor. Good oral hygiene is the best way to combat bad breath. How to Have Better Breath: 1. Brush after meals or at least twice daily (morning and before bed). Be sure and brush along the gum line and behind the teeth. 2. Brush your tongue and roof of the mouth, too. 3. Floss at least once a day. 4. Final rinse with mouthwash. 5. Get regular dental check ups and teeth cleaning. If you follow the good oral hygiene steps and still have bad breath, then consult with your dentist for possible causes and develop a treatment plan. |
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| Health Examinations and Preventive Care |