50+ Lifestyles

Let’s Get Personal

By Carole Ferch, RDH
I-Smile Silver Coordinator
Scott County Health Department

Do you have bad breath or know someone who does? Since it is nearly impossible to smell your own breath, how would you know if yours is offensive? One study found that 80 percent of patients visiting a dental clinic thought they had stinky breath, when only 24 percent of them actually did (Rosenberg et al 2007). I must say that I was relieved to know that I am not the only one who worries about having
bad breath!

On the flip side, what about all of the people who really do have bad breath and do not know it? Over the years as a practicing dental hygienist, many of my patients have asked me “How do I tell my relative, friend, co-worker, or neighbor that their breath really stinks?” The answer to that question is not as simple as you would think!

First of all, you should know that there are several common causes of bad breath which include, but are not limited to:

1. Certain Foods and Drinks- particularly onions, garlic and coffee are well known for causing bad breath.

2. Plaque Buildup- plaque is bacteria that build up on teeth and develops a foul odor when it is not cleaned from the teeth with regular brushing and flossing.

3. Tongue Bacteria- bacteria also collect on the tongue,
especially toward the back and must be brushed or scraped off daily.

4. Tobacco-your non-tobacco using friends will really notice this odor! Smokers are also at a higher risk of gum disease, which is a source of bad breath.

5. Dry Mouth-when you do not have enough saliva, food particles and bacteria cannot be properly washed away, which can lead to bad breath.

6. Gum and Bone Infections (also called periodontal disease)-bacteria can accumulate over time and break down the gum and bone tissues that hold your teeth in place.

7. Medical Conditions-chronic sinusitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal problems, tonsil stones and respiratory tract infections are a few common medical conditions that can cause bad breath.
Yes, bad breath can be embarrassing, but it also has the potential to alert us of other health issues and really should be addressed by a dental professional. If you know someone with bad breath, encourage that person to visit their dentist. Likewise, if you have been told the dreaded news that your breath stinks, don’t be embarrassed, just give your dentist a call!

For more information about I-Smile™ Silver, call or email the Scott County Health Department at 563-326-8618 or health@scottcountyiowa.com

Carole Ferch, RDH is I-Smile Silver Coordinator at the Scott County Health Department, 600 W. 4th St., Davenport, Iowa 52801-1030. She can be reached at (563) 326-8618, ext. 8258.