Do you or someone you know have bad breath?

Bad breath (halitosis) is experienced by 25 % of people at some time. It may simply be "morning breath" but can be a persistent (chronic) condition which affects a person's everyday life and confidence.

Halitosis is the third most frequent reason for seeing a dentist after tooth decay and gum disease.

It almost always starts in the mouth (90 %) and is caused by less effective oral hygiene techniques leading to a build up of excess bacteria (germs) in the mouth which gives off smelly gases.

Contrary to popular belief the following do not usually contribute towards the problem of persistent halitosis: constipation, tonsils, gastro-intestinal problems, alcohol, smoking and certain foods like garlic and spices. They may cause temporary bad breath, but persistent problems with bad breath are often associated with gum disease (you dentist may call this gingivitis or periodontitis).

People who suffer from gum disease are four times more likely to suffer from bad breath. If your gums bleed when brushing or look red and puffy, you can almost be certain to have gum disease and it's best to see a dentist soon.

People ask me: "How do I find out if I have bad breath?"

Answer: Try licking your wrist starting with the back of your tongue and leave it to dry for 15 seconds. Then smell the area.

You can also ask a person you trust to give you an honest answer. Or you can ask your dentist to use a machine to measure your breath.

If you suspect you are suffering from either bad breath or gum disease please call us to arrange a consultation.

At Staplehurst Dental Practice, each member of our team is specially trained to treat the specific needs of the whole family.