Bad breath: how to prevent it

With Valentine’s Day around the corner, Dr Paul O’Dwyer, group clinical advisor at Dental Care Ireland, answers some common questions on how to keep bad breath at bay

Q: What is the most common cause of bad breath?

A: Bad breath (halitosis) can often originate in the gums and tongue. It is typically caused by the bacteria in our mouths as they work to naturally break down food. Smoking is also a common cause. In some cases, persistent bad breath can also be a sign of underlying issues such as tooth decay or gum disease.

Q: Is stress a contributing factor? 

A: Stress, dieting, age, hormonal changes, and dry mouth can all exacerbate the symptoms.

Q: How can I help prevent bad breath?

A: It is important to maintain a consistent oral health routine at home. Ideally, brush twice per day for two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste. Remember to include your tongue, as it can also harbour bacteria. Floss teeth at least once a day, to help clean areas that your toothbrush cannot reach. It is best to replace your toothbrush at least every three months, or after an illness.

Q: How can I avoid it after eating my favourite foods? 

A: Strong-smelling foods and drinks, such as onions, garlic or coffee, can be detected on a person’s breath for up to 72 hours after digestion. The effect on your breath is usually only temporary. Drinking plenty of water and chewing sugar-free gum after a meal, will increase saliva flow, which helps eliminate the odour-causing bacteria.

Q: How can I manage bad breath from smoking?

A: Mouthwashes and smokers’ toothpastes may be effective in removing stains and freshening up the mouth. While they can mask the symptoms/signs of halitosis, however, they cannot treat any underlying damage caused by smoking. Smoking also irritates the gums and often contributes to your chances of tooth decay and gum disease.

Q: What should I do if my bad breath persists?

A: If your bad breath persists, it could be a sign of underlying issues including tooth decay or gum disease. Schedule a regular check-up with your dentist or dental hygienist to help maintain your oral health and prevent the occurrence of bad breath.

For more tips and advice on looking after your family’s oral health, visit dentalcareireland.ie

Dealing with bad breath for Valentine’s Day

It’s something that nobody wants to consider, but bad breath affects one in four of us. Make sure your dental health is in good shape by following these tips

Valentine’s Day is a time for love, and is treasured by couples everywhere. A kiss on Valentine’s Day is something many people will be hoping for, but for one in four people, bad breath may hamper their chances.

According to the Irish Dental Association, 25% of Irish people are dealing with chronic bad breath (or halitosis) at any given time, but even so, it’s a reality that many people can avoid by following just a few quick steps.

A common cause of chronic bad breath is bacteria in the mouth working to naturally break down food, leading to some plaque lingering on your teeth, tongue and gums. When combined with saliva, this plaque can produce an unpleasant smell.

It’s important to remember that brushing only deals with about 60% of this plaque build-up, so make sure that you floss regularly to get to those places where your toothbrush cannot reach, and limit the amount of bacteria and plaque in your mouth.

It’s also important to brush your teeth effectively when dealing with bad breath – generally speaking, you need to brush for a at least two minutes and be sure to change your toothbrush every 3-4 months. You may want to rinse with an antibacterial or odour eliminating mouthwash too.

Of course strong-smelling foods such as onions and garlic can affect your breath, but this is often only temporary and will go once you brush and floss.

Predictably, smoking is also a likely cause of your bad breath. As well as the lingering smell of stale smoke, smoking stains your teeth, irritates your gums and increases your chance of tooth decay and gum disease.

If you follow the steps above and your bad breath persists, it could be a sign of tooth decay or gum disease. Make sure you see your dentist regularly so that you can avoid dealing with bad breath in the first place.

Dental Care Ireland has practices around the country. Get in touch with your local practice for an appointment, and remember you can also book an appointment online