Well, now that we are all wearing masks every day, we’re forced to confront the smell of our own breath. Sometimes that can be more unpleasant than the darn mask itself. Unlike “morning breath” or a strong smell that lingers after a tuna sandwich, the condition known as halitosis can really stink up our mask and may be a sign of something more serious.
If quick bad breath fixes are only covering up the problem for a short time, something else may be happening in your body, including:
But if all of the above are ruled out then it maybe a mouth, nose and throat infections.
Our oral cavity is a teaming jungle of funky bacteria. And besides Streptococcus pyogenes, Streptococcus mutans, is the bacteria identified the most with tooth decay and is present in all areas of the mouth. The two types of bacteria most frequently associated with periodontal disease are Treponema denticola and Porphyromonas gingivalis, and both can multiply to cause inflammation of the gums. The toxins produced by T. denticola and P. gingivalis comprise what’s known as the “red complex,” that disrupt cultures of oral bacteria that usually exist in harmony with one another.
These bacteria are usually found together in periodontal pockets, suggesting that they may cause destruction of the periodontal tissue. If enough of them sneak in beneath the gumline, they can breakdown the bone and connective tissue in and around the teeth. This can ultimately cause the teeth to loosen, some to the point of requiring removal. All of these “Bacteria” produce volatile compounds including hydrogen sulphide, methyl mercaptan and dimethyl sulphide that smell nasty, causing halitosis, AKA, bad breath!
Instead of waiting for a sore throat, periodontal disease or wondering why your friends and family keep at arm’s length, you can proactively work to prevent these problems, especially periodontal disease and sore throats of all kinds, including potentially dangerous strep. Like the probiotics we use for our gut health, now, there is a friendly-bacteria for the oral cavity, called streptococcus salivarius. S. salivarius adheres to cells in the cavity and positively affects the bacterial population and natural immune defenses by inhibiting and eliminating pathogens, modulating the immune system to reduce pathogen-induced-inflammation and helps the immune system rapidly respond to pathogens. Dr. Stewart and the folks at NeuroBiologics formulated Probiotic ENT Defend, a pleasant tasting chewable that activates in the oral cavity for support of ear, nose and throat health. Regular use of this probiotic may help you dodge the upcoming winter sore throat season, keep your mouth free from periodontal disease, and get your family to kiss you again.
