Who treats bad breath?
In most cases, your dentist
can treat the cause of bad breath. If your dentist determines that
your mouth is healthy and that the odor does not begin in your
mouth, you may be referred to your family doctor or to a specialist
to determine the odor source and treatment plan. If the odor is
caused by gum disease, for example, your dentist can either treat
the disease or refer you to a periodontist, a dentist who
specializes in treating gum conditions.
What products can I use to eliminate bad breath?
You
can buy a number of mouthwashes over-the-counter that claim to
eliminate bad breath. However, keep in mind that many of these
mouthwashes generally provide only a temporary way to mask
unpleasant mouth odor. There are, however, several antiseptic mouth
rinse products available that kill the germs that cause bad breath
instead of simply masking breath odor. Look for products that have
received the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance. This
seal means the products have undergone strict testing for safety
and effectiveness. You can also ask your dentist about which
product is best for you.
The American Dental Association does not endorse the so-called
"halitosis kits," which typically contain oral hygiene aids
including sugarless mints and gum, mouth rinses and pastes -- most
of which can be purchased separately for the same effect. It is
best to talk with your dentist about the safety and effectiveness
of these and other products before using them.