Your dentist will likely smell both your mouth and nose breath and rate the smell on a scale. Since the back of the tongue is often the source of odor, your dentist may scrape it and assess the odor. There are sophisticated detectors that can detect the chemicals responsible for bad breath, although these are not always available. Maintain good oral hygiene regularly to reduce bad breath, help prevent cavities, and reduce the risk of gum disease. Further treatment for bad breath may vary depending on the cause. If your bad breath is thought to be caused by an underlying medical condition, your dentist will likely refer you to your primary care provider. For reasons related to oral health, your dentist will work with you to help you better manage that condition. Dental procedures may include: - **Mouthwash and toothpaste.** If your bad breath is due to the accumulation of bacteria (plaque) on your teeth, the dentist may recommend a mouthwash that removes the bacteria. Your dentist may also recommend a toothpaste that contains an antibacterial agent to kill the bacteria that causes plaque. - **Treatment of dental diseases.** If you have gum disease, you may be referred to a gum specialist (periodontist). Gum disease can cause the gums to pull away from your teeth, leaving deep pockets filled with odor-causing bacteria. Sometimes only professional cleaning will remove these bacteria. Your dentist may also recommend replacing a damaged tooth restoration, which is a breeding ground for bacteria. Ways to reduce or prevent bad breath: - **Brush your teeth after meals.** Keep a toothbrush at work to use after meals. Brush your teeth at least twice a day, especially after meals, using fluoride toothpaste. Toothpaste with antibacterial properties has been proven to reduce bad breath. - ** Floss at least once a day. ** Proper flossing removes food particles and plaque from between your teeth and helps control bad breath. - **BRUSH YOUR TONGUE** Your tongue contains bacteria, so brushing carefully may reduce odor. People who have a tongue covered with significant bacterial overgrowth (such as from smoking or dry mouth) may benefit from using a tongue scrubber. Or use toothbrushes that have an internal cleaning tongue. - **Clean dentures or dental appliances.** If you wear a bridge or denture, clean it thoroughly at least once a day or as directed by your dentist. If you have a retainer or mouth guard, clean it every time before putting it in your mouth. Your dentist can recommend the best cleaning product. - **Avoid dry mouth.** To keep your mouth moist, avoid tobacco and drink plenty of water – not coffee, soda or alcohol, which can lead to dry mouth. Chew gum or suck on candy (preferably sugar-free) to stimulate saliva. For chronic dry mouth, your dentist or doctor may prescribe an artificial saliva preparation or an oral medication that stimulates saliva flow. - Adjust your diet. Avoid eating foods such as onions and garlic that cause bad breath. High consumption of sweet foods is also associated with bad breath. - **Get a new toothbrush regularly.** Replace your toothbrush when it wears out, about every three to four months, and choose a soft toothbrush. - **Schedule Regular Dental Checkups.** See your dentist regularly – usually twice a year – for an examination and cleaning of your teeth or dentures. ### When should we go to the dentist? If you want to have your bad breath evaluated by your dentist, these tips can help: - Dentists usually prefer morning appointments for bad breath testing to reduce the chance that the foods you eat during the day will interfere with the examination. - Do not use perfume, scented lotions, scented lipstick or lip gloss on your date, as these products can mask any smell. - If you have taken antibiotics in the past month, check with your dentist to see if you need to reschedule your appointment. ### What do you expect from your dentist Your dentist will likely start by evaluating your medical history and asking questions such as: - When did you first experience bad breath? - Is your bad breath occasional or constant? - How often do you brush your teeth or clean your dentures? - How often do you floss? - What kind of food do you eat most? - What medicines and supplements do you take? - What health conditions do you have? - Do you breathe through your mouth? - Do you snore? Do you have allergies or sinus problems? - Have others noticed your bad breath and commented on it?