Bad breath or halitosis – a dirty word to many – can sour business, love, and family affairs. Fortunately, it is treatable making the sweet life possible.

Wives and significant others have been known to discretely make appointments for loved ones saying, ‘Don’t tell him I talked to you about his bad breath. I can’t take it anymore.’ Another patient reported that once his bad breath was successfully treated he was finally able to get beyond the first date to the first kiss and eventually marry the woman of his dreams.

Bad breath sufferers should not be embarrassed. Sometimes, all the tooth brushing in the world cannot prevent the onset of halitosis. Why? Toothbrushes are unable to reach into the deep pockets that form between tooth and gum. As a result, bacteria multiplies, gum and bone tissue breaks down, and odors are exhaled. The odor of bad breath related to this condition, known as periodontal disease, is so distinct that most dentists are able to recognize it immediately. 

Interestingly, tongue health is also linked to the gum health and can also aggravate bad breath. Researchers find that the level of volatile sulfur compounds coming from the tongue coating is four times greater in people who have periodontal disease. 

In addition to periodontal disease and the obvious food-related villains, bad breath may also be a symptom of deeper problems such as a lung infections or diabetes. Fortunately, halitosis is very treatable. Solutions range from the simplest of recommendations such as eating less garlic and disinfecting toothbrushes to using a professional quality water jet system to flush bacteria from deep pockets (available in dentists offices). 

However, the gold standard for treating patients who suffer from bad breath involves gentle, very deep cleaning and scaling and root planning with tools and technology designed specifically for this issue. It usually requires several visits to complete, but is known to be a long-term solution to halitosis. 

So, while many adults spend thousands of dollars on handbags, a suit, personal grooming and body care annually, many rarely do more than the bare minimum recommended for oral health.  One may seriously consider increasing dental cleanings to three or four a year to promote fresh breath – not to mention a youthful smile. 

Bad breath does not have to be a deal breaker or dating turn-off. Everyone deserves to have confidence face-to-face.  If bad breath concerns you, seek help from a trained board certified dentist trained in the latest techniques for deep cleaning, breath management and overall oral health.