What is causing bad breath? How can I improve?

What is causing bad breath? How can I improve?

Dental plaque is made of bacterial biofilms. These bacteria are made of glucan and fructan polysacchardies derived from the metabolism of dietary sugar. The interaction between the bacteria and our mouth can cause dental problems such as gum inflammation, dental caries, and halitosis (bad breath). These bacteria are protected against mechanical and chemical interventions by microbial matrix. Therefore strategies to disassemble the barrier and eradication of these bacteria are crucial for maintenance of oral health and bad breath.

Jakubovics NS, Goodman SD, Mashburn-Warren L, Stafford GP, Cieplik F. The dental plaque biofilm matrix. Periodontol 2000. 2021 Jun;86(1):32-56. doi: 10.1111/prd.12361. Epub 2021 Mar 10.

How can mouthwash help?

Dental plaque causes many oral diseases such as gum inflammation, dental caries, and halitosis (Sbordone, 2003). Therefore, plaque removal through proper cleaning is mandatory to prevent plaque accumulation. Standard of care includes tooth brushing with a dentifrice containing anti-plaque agents and interdental cleaning with floss (Claydon, 2008). Studies show regular professional plaque control by a hygienist can provide a healthy periodontium (Axellson et al. 2004). Additionally, a mouthwash can prevent plaque growth by inhibiting the proliferation rate of bacteria (Netushil et al., 1995). Essential oil containing mouthwash used in conjunction with toothbrush and floss provides a clinically significant reduction in plaque and gingivitis (Sharma et al., 2004).

Sbordone, L.B.C., 2003. Oral microbial biofilms and plaque-related diseases: microbial communities and their role in the shift from oral health to disease. Clin. Oral. Investig. 7 (4), 181–188.

Claydon, N.C., 2008. Current concepts in toothbrushing and interdental cleaning. Periodontol. 2000 48 (1), 10–22.

Axelsson, P., Nystro¨ m, B., Lindhe, J., 2004. The long-term effect of a plaque control program on tooth mortality, caries and periodontal disease in adults: results after 30 years of maintenance. J. Clin. Periodontol. 31 (9), 749–757.

Netuschil, L., Weiger, R., Preisler, R., Brecx, M., 1995. Plaque bacteria counts and vitality during chlorhexidine, meridol and listerine mouthrinses. Eur. J. Oral Sci. 103 (6), 355–361

Sharma, N., Charles, C.H., Lynch, M.C., et al, 2004. Adjunctive benefit of an essential oil-containing mouthrinse in reducing plaque and gingivitis in patients who brush and floss regularly: a six-month

study. J. Am. Dent. Assoc. 135 (4), 496–504.