Frequently asked questions about bad breath ...

> Is there a test for halitosis?
> My doctors haven't been able to help. What can I do?
> I've had my teeth cleaned. Shouldn't that have eliminated my breath problem?
> No one tells me, but friends react or offer mints. What should I do?
> Sometimes my spouse complains about my breath. Do I have a problem?
> I seem to have a bad taste in my mouth. What does it mean?
> Is the treatment of halitosis expensive?
> Is the treatment of halitosis painful?
> Is halitosis treatment successful?
> Will my dental insurance cover it?
> I notice "bad breath" after eating certain foods. Is that chronic halitosis?

Is there a test for halitosis?

Yes, there is. A special instrument called a Halimeter is used. The Halimeter is a special electronic machine that measures the level of volatile sulfur compounds. These volatile sulfur compounds are the primary components responsible for halitosis. This instrument removes a great deal of guess work and will objectively quantify the severity of bad breath. This instrument is important both in the diagnosis of halitosis and follow-up measurement during the treatment of halitosis.

I've been to my doctors, but they haven't been able to help. What should I do?

Unfortunately, many doctors and dentists don't fully understand the cause of bad breath. Bad breath is caused by medical problems only 10% of the time. Approximately 90% is caused by oral conditions. You need to see a dentist who can diagnose and treat bad breath-someone trained to recognize all contributing factors to your problem.

I recently had my teeth cleaned, and I get regular dental care. Shouldn't that have eliminated my breath problem?

Halitosis is often caused by a bacterial growth or infection in areas of the mouth typically not involved with regular dental cleanings. Bacterial control to reduce or eliminate halitosis often involves different procedures than routine dental care. The bacteria from the tongue must also be eliminated as well as the bacteria under the gum line. For effective treatment, it is important to see a dentist knowledgeable in the diagnosis and treatment of halitosis.

No one has told me that I have a problem with my breath, but friends have turned their heads or offered me mints. What should I do?

If you have a close friend or spouse that you think will give you an honest answer, explain you're concerned and ask them to smell your breath. While this will give you some indication, the only true way to know for sure is to have it tested by a dentist who has proper equipment.

Sometimes my spouse complains about my breath but other times doesn't. Do I have a problem or not?

It's important to understand that the severity of bad breath will fluctuate for various reasons. If you have a true concern, ask your spouse. The best method for determining your problem is still an objective measurement by a dentist with proper equipment.

I seem to have a bad taste in my mouth. Do I also have bad breath?

Often, bad breath and a bad taste are related problems. However, they can occur independently. Professional treatment that eliminates halitosis often will eliminate the bad taste.

Is the treatment of halitosis expensive?

Generally not. If halitosis can be confirmed, typical treatment involves several appointments for proper diagnosis, diagnostic measurements and treatment follow-up. Occasionally, special oral hygiene instruments are recommended and/or special oral medication. If cavities or gum disease are found, it is important to restore health.

Is the treatment of halitosis painful?

There is rarely any discomfort experienced in the relatively simple procedures typically used to treat halitosis.

Is halitosis treatment successful?

The professional dental literature and research on this topic estimates approximately a 90% success rate.

Will my dental insurance pay for the diagnosis and treatment of halitosis?

Generally, proper diagnosis of chronic halitosis involves a very thorough dental examination. Usually, some portion of the diagnosis and treatment will be covered under most dental insurance.

Occasionally, I notice "bad breath" after eating certain foods like onions & garlic. Is that chronic halitosis?

Maybe not. There is a difference between incidental halitosis (meaning bad breath experienced after eating certain foods) and chronic halitosis. Chronic halitosis is also noticed at other times during the day rather than just after eating specific foods. Proper diagnostic instrumentation, such as the Halimeter, will differentiate between chronic halitosis and incidental halitosis.