Expert: Jeff Dalin DDS - 9/4/2005

Question
hi i have  aquesotin about halitosis

i brush my teeth twice a day, floss once a day, use mouth wash and scrape my tongue


but after 3 hours since i brush my teeth, my breath stinks.

what is the cause and how can i get rid of it?

Answer
Justin,
First off, I apologize for the delay in responding to your question. I have had some email problems which just got fixed. So here goes with your answers:

Bad breath is an oral problem if there are cavities present or if there is gum disease present. If you have had a checkup recently, then you would know if you have those problems. If you have not had one, get your teeth cleaned and examined.

If all checks out and you are brushing and flossing and cleaning your tongue then it is a non-dental cause. Possibilities here include post-nasal drainage issues (this is the main cause of breath issues, I feel)...stomach vapors...lung vapors. These are all non-dentist problems. Do you have allergies, drainage issues? If so, talk to your MD or allergist or ENT.

I hope this answers your question. Good luck


Jeff Dalin, DDS