Halitosis — the dreaded bad breath — can be a symptom of minor or sometimes serious health concerns. The most common cause is odor-producing bacteria trapped on the uneven surface of the tongue or on the teeth or dentures. Other sources include tooth decay, faulty fillings and gum disease, which can create pockets for bacteria to gather. Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease and diabetes also can contribute to breath odor.

To discourage bad breath:

• Floss daily — Brushing after you eat and flossing at least once a day serve to remove decaying material from between your teeth and prevent gum disease. Similarly for denture wearers, daily cleaning ensures the removal of food particles that harbor bacteria.
• Brush your tongue — Use your toothbrush or a tongue scraper to remove bacteria from your tongue, particularly in the back.
• Drink water — Since saliva has antiseptic properties, keeping your mouth moist is beneficial.
• Chew gum — Another way to stimulate saliva production is to chew gum occasionally, preferably sugarless varieties. Gum also can help mask any odors.
• Avoid common culprits — Odors from certain foods or substances tend to linger in the mouth. These include onions, garlic, coffee, alcohol and tobacco. Even eating a lot of sugary foods is linked to developing bad breath.
• Schedule dental checkups twice a year — Your dental team can check for potential issues and provide a good cleaning at the same time.

If the issue persists, consult your dentist or primary healthcare
team to determine if underlying health conditions are at play.

From the Mayo Clinic Health Letter. Submitted by Nancy Rasmussen, Parish Nurse