By Dr. Richard Wolfert, DMD
The Toothboss, www.toothboss.com
Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common concern, particularly as we age, and especially when it goes beyond the occasional bout of morning breath. Understanding the causes can help you take the right steps to freshen your breath and maintain a healthy mouth.
What are the common causes of bad breath?
- Dry mouth
Saliva is essential for washing away food particles and bacteria in your mouth. Many medications or medical conditions – or simply aging – can reduce saliva production. That creates the perfect setting for bacteria to thrive, leading to unpleasant odors.
The Fix: Hydrate, chew sugar-free gum, or use an alcohol-free mouth rinse designed for dry mouth. If dry mouth persists, talk to your dentist about saliva-boosting treatments. - Bad oral hygiene
Plaque and food particles left behind after eating can break down and produce foul-smelling bacteria. If you’re not brushing and flossing regularly, or you’re not doing those things effectively, these bacteria accumulate, leading to bad breath, gum disease, and even tooth decay.
The Fix: Brush your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss daily. Brush your tongue, as bacteria can collect there as well. You might want to consider using an antibacterial mouthwash for added freshness. - Gum disease
Not to scare you, but persistent bad breath can be an early warning sign of gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis). When bacteria build up along the gumline, they can cause inflammation, infection, and a strong, unpleasant odor. If left untreated, gum disease can lead to tooth loss and other health complications.
The Fix: Regular dental check-ups and professional cleanings are essential; at least twice a year. Many seniors get their teeth checked three times. If you notice red, swollen, or bleeding gums along with bad breath, see your dentist ASAP for treatment. - Diet and lifestyle habits
Some foods like garlic, onions, and coffee contain strong-smelling compounds. These can linger in your mouth and even enter the bloodstream, which can affect your breath. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can dry out the mouth and leave behind lingering odors.
The Fix: Try limiting those strong-smelling foods before and during social occasions. Be sure to drink plenty of water. That will help wash away food particles. If you smoke, quitting will significantly improve your breath and overall health. - Medical conditions
Sinus infections, acid reflux, diabetes, or kidney and liver disease are just some of the conditions that can cause bad breath and that have nothing to do with your dental care.
The Fix: If you take good care of your teeth and your bad breath persists, talk to your dentist or doctor to rule out any medical concerns.
A cure? Probiotics for fresh breath
There’s been research showing that certain probiotics, like streptococcus salivarius K12, can help fight bad breath. In a nutshell, the good bacteria compete with odor-causing bacteria in your mouth and throat. This helps maintain a healthier oral environment. You can find lozenges or mouthwashes that contain S. salivarius K12. These can help balance oral bacteria and provide long-lasting fresh breath.
Additional Breath Tips for Seniors
- Use a tongue scraper: Cleaning your tongue can remove bacteria and freshen your breath.
- Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables: Apples, carrots, and celery help clean teeth naturally and stimulate saliva production.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups: Again, seeing your dentist twice a year can help detect and treat any issues before they worsen.
Conclusion
You can get your bad breath under control. It’s simply a matter of addressing the root causes and maintaining good oral hygiene. As always, talk to your dentist about your concerns. As you can tell, there are plenty of fixes for bad breath.
About the Author: Dr. Richard Wolfert, DMD is the owner of The Toothboss, 1121 Main St., South Weymouth. For more information, call 781-335-0604 or visit www.toothboss.com.
