Q: What should i do if i have bad breath in New York?
A:Bad breath (halitosis) can be an unpleasant and embarrassing condition. Many of us may not realize that we have bad breath, but everyone has it from time to time, especially in the morning.

There are various reasons one may have bad breath, but in healthy people, the major reason is due to microbial deposits on the tongue, especially the back of the tongue. Some studies have shown that simply brushing the tongue reduced bad breath by as much as 70 percent.

Q: What causes my bad New York breath?
A:Morning time. Saliva flow almost stops during sleep and its reduced cleansing action allows bacteria to grow, causing bad breath. Certain foods such as garlic, onions, etc.

Foods containing odor-causing compounds enter the blood stream; they are transferred to the lungs, where they are exhaled.

Poor oral hygiene habits. Food particles remaining in the mouth promote bacterial growth.

Periodontal (gum) disease. Colonies of bacteria and food debris residing under inflamed gums.

Dental cavities and improperly fitted dental appliances. May also contribute to bad breath.

Dry mouth (Xerostomia). May be caused by certain medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous mouth breathing.

Tobacco products, dry the mouth, causing bad breath.

Dieting. Certain chemicals called ketones are released in the breath as the body burns fat.

Dehydration, hunger, and missed meals. Drinking water and chewing food increases saliva flow and washes bacteria away.

Certain medical conditions and illnesses, such as Diabetes, liver and kidney problems,
chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, and pneumonia are several conditions that may
contribute to bad breath.

Keeping a record of what you eat may help identify the cause of bad breath.

Also, review your current medications, recent surgeries, or illnesses with your dentist.

Q: What can i do to prevent my bad breath?
A: Practice good oral hygiene. Brush at least twice a day with an ADA approved fluoride toothpaste and toothbrush. Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque from in between the teeth and under the gum line. Brush or use a tongue scraper to clean the tongue and reach the back areas.

Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. If you wear dentures or removable bridges, clean them thoroughly and place them back in your mouth in the morning. See your dentist regularly. Get a check-up and cleaning at least twice a year. If you have or have had periodontal disease, your dentist will recommend more frequent visits.

Stop smoking/chewing tobacco. Ask your dentist what they recommend to help break the habit.

Drink water frequently. Water will help keep your mouth moist and wash away bacteria. Use mouthwash/rinses. Some over-the-counter products only provide a temporary solution to mask unpleasant mouth odor. Ask your dentist about antiseptic rinses that not only alleviate bad breath, but also kill the germs that cause the problem.

In most cases, your dentist can treat the cause of bad breath. If it is determined that your mouth is healthy, but bad breath is persistent, your dentist may refer you to your physician to determine the cause of the odor and an appropriate treatment plan

Q: How often should i see my New York Dentist?
A:You should have your teeth checked and cleaned at least twice a year, though your dentist or dental hygienist may recommend more frequent visits.

Regular dental exams and cleaning visits to Dr. Katayev at Murray Hill Dental are essential in preventing dental problems and
maintaining the health of your teeth and gums. At these visits, your teeth are cleaned and
checked for cavities. Additionally, there are many other things that are checked andmonitored to help detect, prevent, and maintain your dental health.

These include:

History review: Knowing the status of any current medical conditions, new medications,and illnesses, gives us insight to your over all health and also your dental health.

Examination of diagnostic x-rays (radiographs): Essential for detection of decay, tumors, cysts, and bone loss. X-rays also help determine tooth and root positions.

Oral cancer screening: Check the face, neck, lips, tongue, throat, tissues, and gums for any
sings of oral cancer.

Gum disease evaluation: Check the gums and bone around the teeth for any signs of periodontal disease.

Examination of tooth decay: All tooth surfaces will be checked for decay with special dental instruments.

Examination of existing restorations: Check current fillings, crowns, etc.

Removal of calculus (tartar): Calculus is hardened plaque that has been left on the tooth for sometime and is now firmly attached to the tooth surface. Calculus forms above and below the gum line, and can only be removed with special dental instruments.

Removal of plaque: Plaque is a sticky, almost invisible film that forms on the teeth. It is a growing colony of living bacteria, food debris, and saliva. The bacteria produce toxins (poisons) that inflame the gums. This inflammation is the start of periodontal disease!

Teeth polishing: Removes stain and plaque that is not otherwise removed during tooth brushing and scaling.

Oral hygiene recommendations: Review and recommend oral hygiene aids as needed
(electric dental toothbrushes, special cleaning aids, fluorides, rinses, etc.).
Review dietary habits: Your eating habits play a very important role in your dental health.

As you can see, a good dental exam and cleaning involves quite a lot more than just checking for cavities and polishing your teeth. We are committed to providing you with the best possible care, and to do so will require regular check-ups and cleanings.