Cherry blossoms are blooming and the bees are pollinating. Spring is officially in full swing, so why are you still hibernating? Dust off those white shoes and khakis, and get out there and do like the animals do. Talk the talk to bring your primal urges to fruition, but please do it with fresh breath. You might be the hottest thing since David Hasselhoff’s hairy chest, but if your breath smells like low tide, do not expect to get very far.
Halitosis, a.k.a. bad breath, is caused by anaerobic bacteria growing on the teeth, tongue, and gums. Brushing and flossing after meals helps eliminate food particles and volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) produced by bacteria, while reducing the amount of bacteria present in the mouth. Studies have shown that up to 50% of VSC-producing bacteria may reside on the tongue, and mechanically cleaning the tongue by either brushing or using a tongue scraper significantly reduces both bacteria and odor.
Over-the-counter mouthwashes are also available to mask or neutralize odoriferous VSCs. A study published in 2008 in the Australian Dental Journal, by McCullough and Farah, provides evidence indicating that mouthwashes containing alcohol (ethanol) increases the risk of mouth cancer. Ethanol also dries the mouth favoring bacterial growth. Mouthwash formulations containing sodium chlorite kill bacteria without drying the mouth and are available over-the-counter.
Use of tobacco-based products contributes to halitosis as well as increase the risk for certain oral cancers. Persistent odor and bleeding gums may be a sign of a serious condition and requires consultation of a physician.
Before you ride the hormonal wave of Earth’s seasonal circadian rhythm, give your mouth a good spring cleaning, and combat halitosis. Because oral hygiene is sexy.
The information contained herein is provided for your general information only. The author does not give medical advice or engage in the practice of medicine. The author under no circumstances recommends particular treatment for specific individuals and in all cases recommends that you consult your physician or local treatment center before pursuing any course of treatment.
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