Using a tongue scraper may help reduce bad breath, however will not eliminate the problem of halitosis completely. Post-nasal drip is a common reason for bad breath because it coats the back of the tongue with bacteria so a tongue scraper is somewhat effective in decreasing foul odor caused by sinus drainage. There is no standard treatment in treating halitosis; however tongue scrapers are significantly more effective at reducing the bacteria that causes bad breath over brushing the tongue alone.
Some people use mouthwashes, eat mints, chew gum, or stay away from offensive foods and drinks to cover up unpleasant odor but this does not work for everyone. If you feel like you can’t eliminate your bad breath problem, consult with your dentist. Periodontal disease (gum disease) is another common reason for foul odor in the oral cavity. When plaque collects under our gums, the bacteria in the gums releases sulfur compounds which have a bad smell causing our breath to be foul. About 75% of the population has some form of gum disease ranging from gingivitis to periodontitis. Signs of periodontal disease are as follows:
- Red or swollen gums
- Bleeding or tender gums
- Hurts to chew
- Your bad breath just won’t go away
- Sensitive teeth
- Loose teeth
We recommend if you are having any of these symptoms see your dentist right away.
Post courtesy of Dr. Perry, Baton Rouge Dentist.