Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in
the mouth and is not usually a sign of
general ill health.
Gum disease can cause bad breath.
But you could still have bad breath with good oral hygiene,
and healthy teeth and gums. The smell then usually comes from the
far back of the tongue. It gets stronger when you talk, as your
mouth gets drier.
Most adults occasionally suffer from bad breath; perhaps a quarter
have it regularly. If you are worried about bad breath, please talk to
your dentist.
Your dentist will:
Make sure, before you see your dentist, that you have not done
anything to hide the normal smell of your breath. Do not smoke,
chew gum or use a mouth rinse, and avoid any sort of perfume; do
not clean your teeth immediately before your appointment.
Your dentist might use a plastic spoon to gently scrape the back of
your tongue and test the smell. There are also instruments that
measure sulphur compounds in the mouth or swelling around the
gums.
Good oral hygiene will usually be the answer to a bad-breath
problem. A scale and polish from your dentist or hygienist makes it
easier for you to keep your mouth clean at home.
© Stalybridge Dental Care 2009 - 2024
Last updated: 28 November 2023