Fresher Breath at Your General Dentist’s Office

Does your morning breath outlast breakfast and your morning hygiene routine? Even if your smile seems bright and healthy, the presence of bad breath can significantly decrease your confidence, not to mention potentially offend the people you interact with throughout the day. Rochester general dentist, Dr. Calcagno, explains that the same cause behind some of the most common dental diseases may also be the reason why your breath is persistently offensive. Luckily, bad breath isn’t incurable, and in most cases, it can be resolved with diligent care and an improved oral hygiene routine.

What Does Your Breath Smell Like?

You might be aware that oral bacteria are the source for such dental issues as tooth decay and gum disease. When enough mouth germs accumulate, they form sticky dental plaque to protect them from saliva and allow them to multiply more freely. Some germs consume sugar and carbohydrates, then convert them into acid that breaks down teeth’s defenses in preparation for tooth decay. Others release toxins that can irritate and destroy healthy gum tissue, leading to gum recession, excessive inflammation, and gum disease. Some bacteria, however, release gaseous volatile sulfur compounds that strongly taint a patient’s breath. Besides bad breath, other smells associated with such volatile sulfur compounds include the stenches of barnyards and rotten eggs.

The Science of Fresher Breath

Brushing and flossing your teeth at least twice a day is the most effective way to control oral bacteria’s population, especially after a night of sleep, during which oral bacteria can gather in force. To kick-start your saliva flow in the morning, eat a well-balanced breakfast before brushing and flossing your teeth. Drinking or rinsing your mouth out with water can also help rinse away accumulated oral bacteria. Also, regular dental checkups and cleanings will allow Dr. Calcagno the opportunity to ensure that your mouth is free of bacteria-laden plaque and tartar. If bad breath is the result of something other than inadequate hygiene, such as a dental disease, an underlying medical condition, or certain kinds of medication, then Dr. Calcagno can help you determine the cause and an appropriate course of action.

About Dr. Calcagno:

Dr. Gilly Calcagno is a member of the Academy of General Dentistry, American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, the American Dental Association, and the Minnesota Dental Association, and is active in local dental implant study clubs. To schedule a consultation, call Calcagno Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry today at (507) 281-3659.