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Saturday, June 27, 2009

10 Main Causes Of Bad Breath

Bad breath is a health problem which greately affects the daytoday activities Somany people. Offenssive the smell of the mouth is unpleasent to those who come in close contact with poor ventilation. The problem has been doubled by psychological trauma of depression. People who suffer from this problem will be isolated from society. This may even lead to marital discord. Literally speaking all humans are badbreathres. Oral cavity contains millions of anaerobic bacteria such as Actinomyces and Fusobacterium, which acts on the proteins of food and materials putrifies them. This process leads to the formation of offenssive gases such as hydrogen sulfide, methyl mescaptan, cadaverine, skatol, etc. putrescine cause odor. If oral hygiene is not maintained properly all the victims of bad breath. Most of us control this by regular brushing, tongue cleaning and gargling. Even after cleaning the mouth some individuals suffer from offenssive smell due to various causes to be diagnosed and treated properly. Some of the causes of bad breath. 1) Poor oral hygiene: If oral hygiene is not maintained properly the mouth becomes the seat of millions of bacteria that produce gas offenssive degrading junk food. Bad breath is severe in those who do not brush their teeth regularly and clean the mouth after every meal. Between meal snacks sockets can also produce bad breath because of improper cleaning. Badbreath is common in almost all people in the morning. During sleep there is less saliva production. Saliva has antibacterial properties that help keep the mouth clean. Saliva conainer molecules of oxygen that is required to make oral cavity aerobic. Therefore, reducing the amount of sleep is a condition favorable for anaerobic bacteria. 2) dietary habits: The main cause of bad smell is due to the degradation of proteins by bacteria and hence all food products rich in protein promotes bad breath. Meat, fish, dairy products, eggs, cakes, nuts, pear, etc. can cause bad breath. Some foods May produce a certain kind of smell that can be unpleasent. Raw onion can produce a characteristic smell. It is said that an apple a day keeps the doctor away, a raw onion a days takes away from everyone. Eating peanuts can also produce bad odors. However, if the cleaning is done a good smell can be reduced, whatever the nature of food. Irregularity at the time of food can also cause bad breath. Small food taken between meals can also produce bad odors. 3) biofilm: There is formation of a thin sticky coating called biofilm on the tongue and oral mucosa. This layer is thick, the posterior surface of the tongue, where millions of gram negative bacteriae. The thickness of coating on the tongue is always associated with badbreath. Even a thin biofilm can make anaerobic conditions for bacterial growth. 4) Dental caries: It is a destructive process that causes destruction of the decalcification of the enamel and dentin of the tooth causing cavitisation. These products are manufactured mainly by the lactobacilli. The food particles are deposited in these cavities and putrified by anaerobic bacteria producing bad smell. Normal brushing will not remove the remains of food that is easily putrified completely. Caries are common in schools, children and those who do maintain oral hygiene. Lack of calcium and vitamin can also predispose caries. 5) Gingivitis: Gum is a mucous membrane with supporting connective tissue covering the tooth with the borders of the mandible. The main function is the protection of rubber. Gingivitis is the inflammation of the gums. Due to various causes of infection of gum tissue resulting in swelling, pain and discharge. If the condition worsens the spread of infection in the area of continuous discharge Peridontal called pyorrhea. Sometimes, the infection produces a profound alveolar abscess with discharge of pus. Infection can even reach the bone causing osteomyelitis.All these conditions can produce offenssive smell. 6) Gum retraction: When the retraction of the gums of the teeth a gap is developed which will lodge food particles and cause bad breath. 7) deposits of plaque and tartar, plaque and tartar is deposited mainly in the spaces between the teeth and gums. This will provide shelter for the food debris and bacteria that cause bad breath. 8) and ulcerative lesions of coatings: Almost all ulcerative lesions of the mouth are associated with bad breath. These injuries can be caused by bacteria, viruses, food allergies or due to autoimmune disorders. Apthous ulcer is more common in ulcerative lesions. Others are herpes, fungal infections, Vincent angina, infectious mononucleosis, scarlet fever, diphtheria, drugs, etc.. Cancerous ulcers produce severe bad breath. All fungal infections produce white coating (candidiasis). Leucoplakia is a thick white patch on the lining of the mouth and tongue. Is considered a precancerous condition. Offenssive breath is associated with these conditions. 9) Diseases of salivary glands: Saliva is very useful for providing oxygen to all parts of the oral cavity. Even a thin layer called biofilm can provide an anaerobic condition in the mouth. Saliva can wet these layers and a condition that is unfavorable for aerobic bacteria. Any condition that reduces the production of saliva can increase bacterial activity. Sometimes salivary duct is obstructed by stones or tumors.Cancer the salivary gland is associated with offenssive smell. In suppurative parotitis purulant dischrge in the mouth causes bad breath. 10) Tonsillitis: A pair of tonsils are lymphoid tissue located in the side wall of the oropharynx. Inflammation of the tonsils is called tonsillitis. Bad breath is seen in both acute and chronic tonsillitis. Angina or peritonsillar abscess can also cause bad breath.

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Dental Health Guide - Do You Have Dry Mouth?

Dry mouth results from an inadequate flow of saliva. It is a symptom rather than a specific disorder. Adequate salivary flow is necessary to lubricate your oral tissues, cleanse your mouth and begins the digestive process as food is chewed. When salivary flow is reduced harmful organisms grow in your mouth.
Chronic dry mouth can be as simple as a nuisance for some people, or it can be the sign of a serious health problem for others. Left untreated, dry mouth may lead to an oral yeast infection, burning sensation, rampant tooth decay, bad breath and other oral health problems. Chronic dry mouth can make swallowing difficult.

A dry mouth irritates your oral soft tissues and can make you more susceptible to infection, tooth decay and periodontal disease. The shielding effects of your saliva protect you and continuously lubricate your soft tissues. Dry mouth also causes full dentures to become less comfortable because your saliva provides a protective film to allow proper adherence of the dentures to the underlying soft tissues.

Dry mouth is a potential adverse effect of more than 400 different medications such as antihistamines, diuretics, and antidepressants. Be sure to read the information that accompanies your medications. If you think that your medication is causing dryness, consult your dentist or physician. In some cases an alternative medication could be prescribed.

Dry mouth may also be a result from radiation treatment for head and neck cancer, salivary gland disease, emotional stress and autoimmune diseases such as diabetes. Hormonal changes associated with pregnancy have also been associated with a dry mouth. Getting relief from dry mouth can be as easy as increasing your fluid intake. Your dentist or physician may recommend artificial saliva available at the pharmacy to keep your oral tissues moist.

Other remedies include:

Sugar free gum Sugar free lemon candies Alcohol-free mouth rinses

Reduced intake of caffeine, alcohol or carbonated beverages Regular visits to your dentist and alerting him (her) of the medications that you are taking will enable them to be aware of the oral manifestations of dry mouth and the best method of treating it before a serious problem arises.



About the Author
Dr. Richard Glick is a graduate of Georgetown Dental School with a specialty degree in Periodontics. His office is unique in providing treatment in one office by Specialists in all phases of dental care including cosmetics and family dentistry. Contact Dr. Glick at (401) 943-6311 or on the web at http://oceanstatedentists.com/index.html.

Wednesday, June 17, 2009

The Right Cure for Bad Breath

When you are looking for a cure for bad breath, you will have to examine the cause of the bad breath in order to treat it effectively. Bad breath is a common condition that affects one in four people and it is good to know that there is a cure and bad breath can be treated effectively.

There are many causes of bad breath including oral bacteria, foods, smoking, dentures, and dry mouth. Each of these different causes of bad breath will be related to either chronic or short-term bad breath. You can find a cure for bad breath for each of these conditions.

Oral Bacteria

Oral bacteria is a number one cause of chronic bad breath and can be eliminated through regular brushing and flossing of your teeth and regular brushing or scraping of your tongue. Oral bacterial lives in your mouth and seems to favour the tongue as one of its favorite hiding spots. You must dislodge food particles and plaque from your mouth so that bacteria cannot thrive in your mouth. When you adopt a regular brushing and flossing routine, you can eliminate oral bacteria and bad breath from your life.

Food Caused Bad Breath

Foods such as onions and garlic can cause short-term bad breath and it is recommended that you eat a sprig of parsley, cloves, fennel seeds or peppermint to mask the odour. The odour cannot be eliminated because it originates in your intestinal tract and you must wait a day for the odour to leave your body naturally.

Smoking Caused Bad Breath

Smoking causes chronic bad breath from the smell of the tobacco and because it leaves your gums and teeth prone to gum disease which causes bad breath. In order to prevent the risk of mouth and gum disease and bad breath caused by smoking, it is recommended that you quit smoking.

Dentures And Bad Breath

Dentures can cause chronic bad breath when the dentures are not cleaned regularly. Food particles can be caught in the appliances and unless the dentures are washed regularly, the food particles will help oral bacteria thrive in your mouth.

Dry Mouth Caused Bad Breath

Dry mouth is a condition that can cause short-term or chronic bad breath because moisture helps to clean the tissues of the mouth. If the mouth is too dry, bacteria cannot be moved away from the mouth. You can drink the recommended daily amount of water and juices to replenish the moisture in your mouth tissues and this will help to flush out oral bacteria. Brushing and flossing must be regularly maintained when a dry mouth condition is present to prevent bad breath.

If you want to find a cure for bad breath, you must match the remedy to the cause of the bad breath. When you have found a cure for bad breath that works for you, you will feel like it is a new beginning.

Saturday, June 13, 2009

Dry Mouth Causes Bad Breath

Saliva is a very important part of oral health. With regards to the topic at hand, saliva provides 3 important functions:


-Provides enzymes to help with digestion of food
-Provides a method to stabilize pH (keep the acid levels in check)
-Provides high levels of oxygen in order to keep oral tissues healthy and fresh.

If you suffer from dry mouth (Xerostomia) symptoms, you naturally have less saliva. In turn, less saliva means less oxygen. If there is less oxygen available in the oral environment you have an anaerobic environment, which is perfect for these sulfur-producing bacteria. In essence, the bacteria are now capable of making high levels of sulfur gases, which in turn make the breath and taste worse.



It is also true that some tongue formations are also more conducive to dry mouth than others. Generally, the rougher one's tongue, the more likely they are to have a bad breath problem. This is connected to the belief by some that bad breath can be an inherited trait. Truthfully, one cannot inherit the bacteria of bad breath, but one can inherit a specific shape (geography) of tongue, just as one would inherit a parent's eye color, hair color, height, and ear shape.

In the graphic on this page, one sees a deep groove going down the middle of the tongue; this is known as a "fissured" tongue and it may lead to a great deal of the anaerobic bacteria breeding at the bottom of this fissure, because oxygen cannot get to the bottom of the fissure (another reason why tongue scraping without oxidizing products is a waste of time).

Some people may have a condition known as "hairy tongue," which again describes the fibers that make up the tongue (papillae), being slightly longer than the norm. The longer the papillae, the more rough the appearance of the tongue and of course the better to trap the sulfur producing bacteria.

Once the tongue becomes very dry, or if the tongue becomes irritated by extra hard scraping or brushing, the outer layer becomes very sensitive. One prevalent condition among older people is "burning tongue syndrome". It is common among both sexes, but slightly higher among women. That fact has caused some scientists to believe that there is a hormonal component to "burning tongue syndrome." Many patients who are diabetic may notice a burning of the tongue once they become thirsty. It is important, when one has these types of symptoms, to stay away from oral rinses that may burn or make your mouth dry. The resulting pain is indescribably painful according to many of my patients.

The standard recommendation for burning tongue syndrome and dry mouth is the following:



(among patients we have treated)

Stop using oral products which make your mouth dry and/or contain sodium lauryl sulfate.
Stop drinking citrus juices (tomato, orange, grapefruit, etc.).
Avoid coffee.
Do not smoke.
See your physician regarding possibility of diabetes or thyroid problems.



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"One who tries the following in their daily oral hygiene can drastically improve their oral health and decrease the occurrence of bad breath."



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Daily Oral Regimen for Those who Have Burning Tongue Syndrome or Dry Mouth:



Coat tongue twice daily with toothgel and let sit on tongue for 90 seconds.
Rinse with 1-2 capfuls of oral rinse for 90 seconds.
Drink 8 glasses of water per day.
Take Vitamin C on a daily basis as recommended on label.
Mints and oxygenating tablets can also be helpful.

Tonsils and Tonsilloliths:



(Those white-yellow stones that get stuck in your throat).


These bacteria can breed very easily in the back of the throat, and especially the tonsils, if you still have them. One important fact to remember: the bacteria never start off in the throat or tonsils. They only get there because the bugs originate on the back of the tongue which contacts the throat & tonsils every time you swallow. When someone has post nasal drip or allergies, it is possible to form little "white globs" scientifically known as tonsilloliths. They are a combination of sulfur compounds (produced by the bacteria) and mucous (from post nasal drip). Their smell is very strong! Do not attempt to pick them out yourself; you'll cause a lot of bleeding.

Many dentists and physicians don't even know what they are. They are not food particles, and it is not the sign of infection. Do not have a tonsillectomy for this reason because you will still have bad breath due to the fact that the bacteria is still on the back of your tongue. If you no longer have your tonsils, a similar reaction takes place if you have had a history of sore throats your throat is much rougher.



About the Author
The staff at TheraBreath educates people on the causes and cures of bad breath, white tongue, tonsil stones, gum disease and other topics related to oral hygiene. TheraBreath also promotes probiotics aimed at stopping bad breath.

Tuesday, June 9, 2009

Bad Mouth Odour is the Worse

Bad mouth odour is the worse one could ask for or dream of. It spoils the best one can give or maybe even the first impression. Proper dental health care is sure to ensure healthy teeth and fresh breath. When it comes to ones teeth they are meant to last out for lifetime, and good dental care can make them last out for long.

Since there are natural teeth in the mouth, tooth decay can occur since there could be remaining bacteria, which sticks to the teeth and causes dental plaque. Plaque can only be removed with careful brushing every single day. Along with brushing flossing also helps remove plaque and leftover food.

For good dental health, one should ensure good brushing with a good toothbrush as worn out toothbrushes do not help in cleaning teeth and can also cause injury. Your toothbrush should be replaced every three months for better gums and teeth.

When it comes to a smile it could win over anyone at anytime or age. Fluoride is very essential for both adults and children. Which could be found in drinking water and some food items. A balanced nutritious diet can go a along way for good dental health, including raw vegetables, cheese and fruit.

A good dentist goes a long way in ensuring good dental health, with regular check ups even in the case of false teeth or dentures and even real teeth. Good oral health can also be had with good toothpaste, never compromise on good toothpaste.

Incase of dentures they should be kept clean without the presence of leftover food particles, which in turn could cause gum irritation and bad breath. The entire surface of the dentures should be brushed very well. When one usually crosses 35 years and above one may experience tooth loss because of a gum disease known as periodontal disease, which is caused due to infections of the gum and bone that keep and hold the teeth in its place.

Natural permanent teeth could be had only once in a lifetime, and you should take good care of your teeth and be even more confident. As you look in the mirror to see you teeth you will automatically smile back, but this will only happen when you ensure good dental care and health. Refrain from activities such as too much coffee and smoking.

By keeping your mouth healthy you are ensuring a healthy body. Take proper care of your teeth and have white attractive teeth and a rewarding smile all life long.

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

What Causes Bad Breath (Halitosis)?

More than 40-million Americans suffer from bad breath. It's a condition that can present both a social and professional handicap. While those experiencing this medical condition spend billions on over-the-counter remedies, few are aware of the effective treatments offered by dental professionals.

Up to 90 percent of bad breath is caused by volatile sulfur compounds produced by oral bacteria. These compounds may be found even in the healthiest of mouths. One form of halitosis is caused by foods we eat. Fortunately, you can temporarily treat this form of halitosis with thorough brushing, flossing and rinsing.


Other causes of halitosis may require professional intervention. Today's dentists, however, use the latest in diagnostic methods to identify your particular cause of bad breath and offer a remedy.

Volatile sulfur compounds
VSC is the main source of bad breath. When you eat, oral bacteria and enzymes begin breaking down the food particles. This creates by-products containing VSCs, which smell like rotten eggs. These compounds grow primarily at the rougher back-end of the tongue.


Periodontal (gum) and gingival disease
Gum disease may pull your teeth away from gum tissues and form pockets. Only a professional periodontal cleaning can remove the deep pockets of bacteria and plaque that accumulate. Some cases may require further treatment.

Plaque
A mouth with an extensive build-up of plaque may require a special, antimicrobial mouth rinse. You also may need to brush your tongue after brushing your teeth.


Xerostomia, or Dry Mouth
Mouth dryness is caused by a decrease in saliva, which helps with natural cleansing of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. Bacteria grow more rapidly when salivary flow decreases. Chronic dry mouth may be caused by some medications or by a disorder of the salivary glands. Very dry mouth may be managed with artificial saliva. Drinking more fluids also helps.

Systemic Diseases


Bad breath may be a sign of such medical disorders as an infection of the respiratory tract (including nose throat, windpipe and lungs), postnasal drip, chronic sinusitis, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, liver or kidney ailment, and such gastrointestinal disturbances as reflux, indigestion or hiatal hernia. If any of these disorders are the possible cause of your halitosis, your dentist may suggest you see your physician for a complete physical examination to rule out any medical condition.

Tobacco Products
The primary remedy for bad breath caused by smoking tobacco products is to stop smoking.

Hormonal increases


Because hormones increase the proteins in saliva, women may suffer halitosis several days out of the month.

HOW TO LIVE CONSCIOUSLY by Renee Shupe

HOW TO LIVE CONSCIOUSLY
Have you ever seen ants marching in search of food? They just follow one another in an almost endless game that seems to drone on and on. Does your life feel like an ant's life - as if you're going from day to day, doing the same thing, the same way, and nothing ever changes?

If so, then there's a very good probability you're not living consciously.

Conscious living is being aware of your life and the things you're doing. It's about taking the time to stop and smell the roses so you can see where you fit into the whole picture. Living consciously is a vital component in enjoying the fleeting moments we have on Earth.

It's important to take note of what's going on around us and be aware of what we're doing. Living consciously brings us an understanding of what we're capable of doing and paves the way for us to get where we want to go.

BENEFITS OF CONSCIOUS LIVING

Perhaps you're wondering, "What's in it for me?" Conscious living brings with it many benefits, which you may already be seeking in your life.

Here are just a few of these benefits:

1.Relieve stress. Conscious living can be a great stress reliever. Not only does it make life more enjoyable when you alleviate your stress, but it also makes you healthier. Stress affects every process in our bodies and can cause serious disease if it builds up within us.

2.Expand your horizons. As you become more aware of your surroundings, you'll find that you can better understand the world and your place in it.

3.Live in the moment. Throughout the day, you'll be more focused on your work because you're consciously acting on a specific task in the moment.

4.Enjoy more passion in your relationships. While living consciously, your relationships will become more meaningful because you'll be appreciative of them as well as the other person. You'll be more in tune with your partner and aware of every want and need.

5.Know your importance. Your job will become more fulfilling because you're more conscious of your role in the grand scheme of things. You no longer just answer a phone or hand someone a photocopy, but you are consciously making a difference.

6.Bring color into your world. Your surroundings will become more vibrant because you'll notice things like the subtle differences between the shades of the trees and the direction of the soft breeze.

7.Being conscious of life makes life more fun. When you're living consciously, bad days are few and far between.

ACTION STEPS TO LIVING CONSCIOUSLY

Luckily, transforming your humdrum life into one filled with vibrant joy is easier than you may think! You can make some simple adjustments to your everyday routines to live consciously and more fully enjoy your life.

HERE ARE SOME ACTION STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO BRING CONSCIOUS LIVING TO YOUR LIFE:

1.Stop. Take some time to stop throughout the day and look around. Be aware of where you are and what's around you. Become conscious of your surroundings and notice how you fit into them.

• Notice the details such as the green on the trees, or the condensation dripping down the side of the cup.

• Become in tune with what your body feels and actually search out the sensations of your fingers and toes while feeling your chest rise and fall with each breath.

2.Breathe. Take deep breaths and be in the moment. Don't think about what you've done or what you still have to do, just take a minute or two to just breathe!

3.Learn. Take a few minutes each day to try something new. Pick up a book you've wanted to read or learn a new skill. By doing this, you're starting to become conscious of your life and the things you can do with it.

There are many things you can do to live life to its fullest. Living consciously is one of the easiest changes to make on a day-to-day basis. Take a few of these ideas, integrate them into your routine, and begin enjoying the benefits of living consciously!