Dentures are like natural teeth. They need proper maintenance and care otherwise you will get bad breath. If you do not want to incur additional partial denture costs, for example, you will have to remove the dentures at night, soak them and brush them regularly. Clean dentures control the formation of plaque and help prevent gum disease. Keeping your dentures clean also plays a huge role in maintaining overall oral health and preventing halitosis.
What is halitosis?
Forget the occasional bad breath when you wake up, or after you eat a spicy meal, halitosis does not cave. It is the term used to define a consistent lousy odour from one’s mouth that is not responsive to brushing or flossing. The few times that the smell responds to hygiene practices, it only does so temporarily. In such a case, your bad breath could be indicative of another issue in your body. Ultimately though, halitosis is caused by bacteria in the tongue and throat that produce sulfur. The bacterial growth will depend on factors discussed below.
Causes of halitosis
Dental issues and food particles
You could experience halitosis if you have gum disease. Typically, the disease causes deep cavities that serve as a bacteria breeding point. They are difficult to reach when brushing and sometimes even painful when you try to clean them. In some cases, strong smelling food particles remain in the cavities, in between teeth or between the teeth and the dentures. Whether it be onions or garlic, these food ingredients can leave a post-meal odour that when left unchecked contributes to halitosis.
Throat, nose and mouth infections
Research shows that sinuses or other nose and throat infections can result in bad breath. Typically, bacteria will feed on body mucus when fighting disease to leave you stinky. Not only do the conditions contribute, but sometimes it is also the post nasal drips that you use which escalate the smell.
Dry mouth
Saliva plays a vital role in oral health. It helps to remove leftover food particles from the mouth. It also breaks down food and contributes disease-fighting substances that help prevent infections and cavities. As such, a dry mouth could be a sign of halitosis or could result in the condition. Persons with dry mouth may have to deal with additional partial denture costs.
Conditions such as kidney and liver disease could also contribute to the disease. Additionally, substances such as tobacco, cause dry mouth, increasing the chances of getting halitosis. Whatever the case, bad breath can be very embarrassing. Fortunately, you are not condemned to be a social outcast if you have the condition.
Dealing with halitosis
The same way one thing does not cause the condition is the same way the treatment procedures vary. A dentist will deal with the situation based on the cause. For instance, one could recommend tongue cleaning. In such a case, they would use tongue scrapers and brushes to remove buildup gently.
People whose halitosis is caused by sinuses may have to use a nasal spray. They may also have prescribed a course of antibiotics that will help to control the overgrowth of bacteria. Whatever the treatment cause, good oral hygiene must also be observed. You will need to be keen on brushing and flossing regularly to avoid incurring extra partial denture costs. In fact, keeping your dentures clean whether or not you have the condition plays to your overall oral health.
If you are struggling with halitosis or would like to learn more about keeping your dentures clean, then contact Aesthetic Dentures.
