Bad Breath and Gingivitis

Does this sound familiar to you? My dentist and hygienist mentioned that I had irritated gums as they cleaned my teeth. This is a symptom of gingivitis.

Gingivitis can be a stepping stone to major problems in the mouth and gum line. It can lead to periodontal disease, which is a much more serious problem with the potential for actual bone loss.

Halitosis (bad breath) could be related to a gingivitis infection as both are caused by bacteria. Red, swollen and/or bleeding gums characterize gingivitis. These symptoms are most evident upon flossing and sometimes from brushing.

Bacteria cause gingivitis. And bacteria are considered to be responsible for bad breath.

Sometimes, I could even see the bloodstains that the hygienist quietly wiped away with a towel. It was embarrassing enough to know that I wasn't controlling my gingivitis problem, but to know that she was actually trying not to make a big deal out of it was troubling.

I knew my dentist was concerned because she gave me a bottle of alcohol based mouthwash to try and mentioned that she wanted to see how I looked next time. I don't like using it; there is too much alcohol and the taste is not very pleasant. Alcohol may also dry the mucous membranes in the mouth.

The Problem

Bacteria can stick to your teeth and secrete acid onto them contributing to cavity formation. They can also infect the gums, particularly around the gum line, causing gingivitis. This can manifest initially as bleeding and irritated gums.

Having a lot of uncontrolled bacteria multiplying in the mouth may also lead to bad breath, but there is a natural and normal amount of bacteria in the mouth, and you will never completely get rid of them all, nor would you want to.

Theory has it that it is actually the anaerobic bacteria that live in the tongue and throat that produce sulfur that in turn produce hard to get rid of bad breath. These anaerobes create VSCs or volatile sulfur compounds. One type is the familiar rotten egg smell. There are other odors coming from VSCs as well. These sulfur-producing bacteria may feed on certain foods, like coffee, alcohol and meats.

A gingivitis problem can offer a way for bacteria to easily enter your blood stream and that can lead to additional problems. Systemic infections could come from this. Gingivitis can be something that makes your gums bleed easily in a mild case or it can be the root of deep gum recession, leading to bone loss in the worse case scenarios. (Periodontal disease)

Loss of gum line can be discouraging. A friend of mind once described the process as, getting long in the tooth". Sometimes, people experience this problem by brushing too hard. TIP: Using a soft bristled toothbrush with the type of motion that your hygienist recommends may help prevent eroded gum lines.

Treatment and Prevention

Had you ever heard of under-the-gum cleanings? This could be part of the protocol your dentist might invoke, should you develop periodontal disease. If you know people that have had an under-the-gum cleaning; they may tell you that it is not very pleasant.

Your dentist can deal with this problem in a variety of ways. However, prevention probably is the best option. Include good flossing and brushing habits - see your dentist for details. And you could add a non-alcohol based mouthwash alternative to your regimen.

I'm currently using a special toothbrush that uses vibration to clean the teeth. This device does a better job than a regular toothbrush in keeping my teeth clean. It does take a little while to get used to because of the vibration. It makes many, many vibrations per second. This helps to give it such wonderful cleaning abilities.

Don't feel sad if you have excellent oral health habits but you still have bad breath. This is common and many people experience this same situation. Oral health products that don't contain sodium lauryl sulfates or artificial flavors that can still kill the bacteria that cause bad breath without using harsh alcohol or tough chemicals may be helpful.

I am not a dentist. This article is for information purposes only. This article is not meant for diagnosis, treatment or prevention nor is it meant to give advice. If you have or suspect you have gingivitis, periodontal disease or any other dental problems, visit your dentist for a consultation.

David Snape is a health, fitness and well-being enthusiast. He maintains a site: http://tobeinformed.com on the same theme.
david@tobeinformed.com

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Post-Nasal Drip has Effect on Bad Breath

Bad Breath is very closely related to post nasal drip, excess mucus, sinus problems, your tonsils, and tonsiloliths.

The bacteria which cause bad breath and sour/bitter/metallic tastes are anaerobic (live without oxygen). Their goal in life is to break down the proteins in foods that we eat. However, under certain conditions, they will also start to break down the proteins found in mucus and phlegm.

Therefore, those people who suffer from post nasal drip, sinus problems, and other such ailments are more prone to bad breath and lousy tastes because the bacteria use the mucus as a food source and start to extract sulfur compounds from the amino acids that make up the proteins found in all this excess mucus.

Scientifically, the anaerobic bacteria that cause bad breath "love" the amino acids Cysteine and Methionine, which are the building blocks of the proteins that are found in mucus (and phlegm) and in dairy foods, too. In fact, many people notice that when they drink too much milk or eat too much cheese they end up with more mucous or phlegm in their throat. This is a natural reaction for many people and unfortunately, ends up causing more bad breath and lousy taste.

If you still have your tonsils, you may be harboring a higher number of the bacteria which can lead to an
"interesting" and very often misunderstood phenomenon, called TONSILOLITHS. Literally translated, they are "tonsil stones" produced by the conglomeration of mucus draining down the back of the throat and the volatile sulfur compounds created by the bacteria which easily end up in the "nooks and crannies" of the tonsils, every time one swallows. I can't tell you how many stories I've heard from my patients who asked their dentist what these objects were, and more often than not the answer was 'food particles'. This couldn't be further from the truth!

Medication and Drugs MAY help Prevent Post-Nasal Drip, But At What Cost?

There are dozens of different over-the counter nasal decongestants and antihistamines you can use to help relieve congestion and dry up excess mucus, and some of them are very good at what they claim but mostly they are TOO GOOD! They create an extremely dry mouth, which exacerbates bad breath. And even in cases where the dry mouth side effect is minimal, when you stop taking that medication the problem comes back, and almost always with a vengeance! This is because in some cases, your body will actually develop a resistance to any antihistamines or nasal decongestants, especially nasal sprays (be careful, because
many sprays are habit forming!)

Suffice it to say, this should NOT be an option that you pursue.

Use a Nasal-Irrigator to Flush Your Sinuses free from Excess Mucus

Nasal Irrigation is probably the most effective method of eliminating post-nasal drip and helping to control sinus infections. A short period of regular use can stimulate the cilia (the tiny hair-like fibers in the nasal sinus passages) to restore their natural protective "sweeping & cleansing" action.

When you feel a sinus condition come on, or feel that you have persistent post-nasal drip and excess mucus, consistent daily use for 10 days should result in a clearing of the condition.

Stop Bad Breath Associated with Post-Nasal Drip, Excess Mucus, and Sinus Problems

For people who don't really have sinus problems, just "off and on" or seasonal post-nasal drip, then an alternative (and better) solution might be to minimize the amount of excess mucus in the back of the throat and more importantly to make sure you neutralize the odor caused by this excess mucus.

You see, the proteins in mucus make an excellent food source for the anaerobic bacteria that cause bad breath. The bacteria feed off the amino acids, Methionine and Cysteine, and create extremely odorous and lousy-tasting Volatile Sulfur Compounds as by-products, which are the odors and lousy tastes found in the medical condition halitosis, which YOU (or maybe everyone around you) more commonly knows as bad breath.

When I first started treating my own daughter's breath problem 10 years ago, I never dreamed that I would end up helping so many people all over the world who had the same problem, which my fellow dentists ignored or misdiagnosed for far too long. It was only a few years into our clinical therapy that I realized that "Every case of bad breath is different and that there is no such thing as one formula to
treat every case of halitosis."

For a decade now, we've been here to help our patients prevent bad breath, sinus congestion, and lousy
tastes. If there is anything we can do to help, please don't hesitate to contact us - that's why we're here!

Uncover the REAL Causes of Bad Breath!
Dr. Harold Katz, founder of the California Breath Clinics,
is a worldwide expert on the topics of bad breath,
halitosis and dry mouth.

His 'Bad Breath Bible' is an easy-to-read guide to help
YOU enjoy fresh breath every day for the rest of your life.
Request your free copy at:
http://www.therabreath.com/a/1164/ebook.asp

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Foods To Avoid That Cause Bad Breath

There are certain categories of food that will cause bad breath. You know some of them, but do you know them all? Some of our favorite foods can create a breeding ground for volatile sulfur compounds - the root of all bad breath problems.

Learn all about each of the food categories, how they cause bad breath, and what you can do to stop the bad breath culprits in their path!

Did you know that there are specific foods that may lead to bad breath? This is because of volatile sulfur compounds - the culprit in causing bad breath!

For example, if food sits out too long it will spoil. That spoiling action is due to anaerobic bacteria breaking down proteins in that particular food. In milk, the odor of sour milk is caused by relatives of the bugs that create bad breath when they break down proteins in the milk (and basically in all dairy foods). A reaction takes place where 'the bad breath bugs' extract sulfur compounds from the amino acids in these proteins. Specifically, the amino acid Cysteine is converted to Hydrogen Sulfide (which has a rotten egg smell) and Methionine becomes Methyl Mercaptan (which smells like a cross between old socks and garlic). The same analogy applies to meat if it sits out too long.

Everyone knows that onions and garlic will create bad breath. But do you know why? It's because the odorous molecules in onions and garlic are actually sulfur compounds themselves called Mercaptans. Sulfur is nature's way of creating odors. You're all familiar with the skunk. Its odor is created by a defense and/or attack mechanism. Skunk odor is made up of skatoles, which are naturally occurring sulfur compounds. In a similar fashion, bacteria in your mouth creates the volatile sulfur compounds of bad breath and taste disorders.

There are 4 food categories that will result in an increase of sulfur production because these categories have a stimulating affect on the bacteria that cause bad breath:

1. Drying Agents 2. Dense Protein Foods 3. Sugars 4. Acidic Foods
Let's look closely at each of these food categories and how they stimulate bad breath!

DRYING AGENTS

The most common drying agent in food is alcohol. Alcohol of course, is the basis of all "adult" beverages such as beer, wine, and hard liquor. It is also used, unfortunately, in many mouthwashes you find in the grocery stores, which only makes a bad breath problem worse.

Alcohol, known chemically as a desiccant, is used quite often in laboratories to "dry out" hard to reach areas in test tubes and beakers. The same end result takes place in the oral cavity.

Although cigarettes are not really food, smoking is probably the quickest way to dry out your mouth, with alcohol being the second. If you smoke, you are bound to have bad breath!

DENSE PROTEIN FOODS

Dairy foods are notorious for creating bad breath. An article that appeared in the "Los Angeles Times" once noted that over 50% of the population in Southern California was "lactose intolerant". With regards to bad breath, many of these people (numbering in the tens of millions) end up with more dense proteins available as bad breath fuel for the bacteria than those who have no problem with dairy foods like milk, cheese, yogurt, ice cream, etc. The end result is a buildup of amino acids, which are easily converted into volatile sulfur compounds by the anaerobic bacteria found within the surface of your tongue and throat.

To a lesser extent, people have the same problem with other types of food that are considered to be dense in protein such as beef, chicken, and fish.

Another problem, thankfully rare, has to do with people who have an inability to break down certain proteins found in beans. This condition is called TMA (Trimethylaminuria) and is sometimes known as the "Fish Odor Syndrome," because the odor produced is similar to decaying fish. The odor consists of sulfur compounds, plus nitrogen compounds (amines). People with this condition must abstain from beans and other types of food that are dense in protein.

SUGARS

Wouldn't it be great if we could get rid of bad breath by chewing on M&Ms? Or what if the cure for bad breath were Hershey Kisses?

That's what the makers of Altoids would have you believe. Altoids, and other products of the same ilk, are trying to fool the public into believing that a strong "good" taste in your mouth is equivalent to the "freshness" of your breath. This is so anti-scientific it's absurd! If you think about it for a minute, it really doesn't make any sense.

By using concentrated mint flavorings, your taste buds pick up mint as a taste. However, Altoids contains two types of sugar which again, are a fuel for the bacteria to reproduce and create more sulfur compounds - thus bad breath. In addition, the frightening part is that other bacteria can take the sugars and produce glycan strands, which in turn end up causing thick layers of plaque on the enamel of your teeth and around your gums. This leads to tooth decay and gum disease - and you guessed it - worse breath than you started with!

Since you can't smell your own breath, you just go merrily along with that great strong mint taste in your mouth, while others close to you are backing away - backing away from your increased bad breath, decayed teeth, and gross, swollen, bleeding gums!

Stay away from candies, mints, and chewing gum if they contain sugar! Instead, let me recommend an alternative created by TheraBreath called the TheraBreath Oxygenating Chewing Gum (http://www.therabreath.com/products.asp?CAT=5). It releases Oxygen molecules directly into your mouth and also contains the antibacterial agent, Zinc Gluconate. This agent is found in many cold medications. In addition it contains Xylitol, which is a natural sweetening agent with an anti-decay compound.

ACIDIC FOODS

Foods with a high acidic content are a problem as well. pH is a term used to describe the acidity of an environment. The oral cavity has a normal pH of 6.5 (7 is considered neutral). Some of the foods you should watch out for are coffee and many citrus juices. Both decaffeinated and regular coffee contain acids. However, tea is okay. Among the citrus juices the ones with the highest acidic content include tomato juice, orange juice, pineapple juice, and grapefruit juice.

We know that acids make the bacteria reproduce much faster. In order to decrease the production of odorous sulfur compounds, the acid environment needs to be neutralized.

What can you learn from all this? Avoiding foods that contribute to, if not cause, bad breath is vital if you want to have clean fresh breath. While this is a difficult task, being aware of these bad breath causing elements is the first step in developing confidence in your breath. In addition, it is important to use oral care products that are free of alcohol, sugar, and that also have a high pH level.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Harold Katz is the worldwide expert on the topics of bad breath, halitosis, and dry mouth. Searching for a bad breath solution? To receive your FREE copy of his easy-to-read "Bad Breath Bible" visit: http://www.TheraBreath.com/web/art/L-FTCBB.asp

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Bad Breath Cure That Works Fast In As Little As 1-2 Days

If you are one of the millions of sufferers of bad breath, halitosis or gingivitis then you already know the embarrassment and the frustration of trying to cover it up. How many times do you brush your teeth daily, pop breath mints or chew gum only to be frustrated with temporary results that may only last for minutes. But as hard as you try the underlying problem is still there 'stinky breath'.

Finding an effective bad breath cure has never been simpler now that Chris Gibson, a long time sufferer of halitosis has just released his updated book 'How I Banished My Bad Breath And Gum Disease For Life'. Whether you suffer from just bad breath, or any other periodontal diseases like gingivitis, bleeding and sensitive gums, recessed gums, canker sores or even pyorrhea 'How I Banished My Bad Breath and Gum Disease For Life' will help you cure these symptoms fast and for good. Bad breath could be gone in as fast as one day while other symptoms may take up to a week to subside or reverse. All this without expensive dental visits, taking dangerous prescription drugs, or using off-the-wall remedies.

People across the Country who are using Chris Gibson's techniques are reporting fantastic results. Like Francis Bowers of Oregon, a long time sufferer of bad breath writes 'I am 49 now and have to tell you that I have not found a more comprehensive bad breath cure. Not even from my own dentist! This worked so well that I am telling everyone in my family to try it, because gum disease runs through the entire clan! Thank you so much'.

Curing your halitosis though comes down to one thing and that is proper education. By being informed on the current facts, myths, and remedies available you can finally take the steps to beating and curing your halitosis while improving your self-esteem dramatically.

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Bad Breath Cause & Cure

Millions of people throughout the world suffer from bad breath. The main cause of bad breath may be due to bad dental hygiene, bacteria in mouth, infection, diabetes, drugs, gum disease, liver disease, smoking and tooth decay. Plaque on the tongue can cause bad breath where bacteria can grow. If you do not clean your mouth after consuming alcoholic drinks, tobacco chewing, cigarette smoking, and foods like onions, garlic, etc., it can contribute to bad breadth.

Bad Breath Cure

1. If you keep teeth, tongue, and mouth clean, you will not suffer from the problem of bad breath. Brush your teeth along with tongue in the morning, in the evening and after every meal.
2. Follow the good oral hygiene rules.
3. Wash the tongue with baking soda dissolved in warm water.
4. Brush and floss teeth regularly.
5. Clean and replace your toothbrush regularly.
6. Avoid mouthwashes with dyes and alcohol.
7. Parsley, coriander, clove, fennel and anise seeds are great breath freshners.
8. You should take all care in cleaning your teeth by using proper tooth brush and adopting correct brushing technique for bad breath cure.

-------------------

About the Author
This article has been written by
http://www.fatfreekitchen.com
For more natural remedies visit
http://www.fatfreekitchen.com/teeth/breath.html for natural bad breath cure.

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The Truth About Halitosis, More Commonly Known As Bad Breath

Have you ever wondered the truth behind halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath, and what causes it? Discover the cause of halitosis, the conditions that worsen a halitosis problem, and recommendations for a solution.

PART I: THE SCIENCE OF HALITOSIS AND BACTERIA IN YOUR MOUTH

Halitosis, also more commonly known as bad breath, is caused by anaerobic producing bacteria which normally live WITHIN the surface of the tongue and in the throat. These bacteria are supposed to be there because they assist with digestion by breaking down proteins found in specific foods, mucous or phlegm, blood, and in diseased or "broken-down" oral tissue. Under certain conditions, these bacteria start to break down proteins at a very high rate. Proteins are made up of amino acids, two of which (Cysteine and Methionine) are dense with sulfur.

When the "beneficial" bacteria come into contact with these amino acids, the halitosis and "lousy-tasting" sulfur compounds are released from the back of the tongue and throat. These halitosis compounds are often scientifically referred to as Volatile Sulfur Compounds (VSC's), where volatile means vaporous and effervescent.

Because my original degree is in Bacteriology, let me explain a very important fact about these "bugs". First of all they are not infectious. Everyone in the world has the same group of bacteria in their mouth. You cannot "catch" halitosis from someone, even through kissing. Since they are part of our normal oral flora, you cannot permanently remove them from your mouth either, not by tongue scraping, not with antibiotics, and not by using rinses which claim to "lift the bacteria off your tongue". The only scientifically proven and clinically effective method of halting halitosis is by attacking the bacteria's ability to produce VSC's, and by converting the VSC's into non-odorous and non-tasting organic salts.

Speaking about bacteria, there is one other fact that you must understand about them. They are classified as "anaerobic" which literally means "without oxygen". They thrive in an environment where oxygen is NOT present. That is why they do not live on the surface of your tongue. Instead, they live in between the papillae (fibers) that make up your tongue.

These sulfur compounds are actually by-products of anaerobic bacteria. Everyone needs these bacteria because they assist the digestion process. Unfortunately as of yet for some undetermined reason, these particular bacteria are found in higher numbers in those plagued by halitosis. There are various theories that attribute the cause of halitosis to hormonal changes, a history of taking medications (usually antibiotics or sulfa drugs because they create an imbalance of oral bacteria), or even due to genetics (halitosis disorders appear to run in some families). It is known however, that halitosis seems to be evenly split between men and women.

PART II: THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH HALITOSIS BECOMES WORSE

There are certain conditions that exasperate a halitosis problem such as dry mouth, post nasal drip, the sinuses, and eating high protein foods.
Dry Mouth and Halitosis

Although some cases of dry mouth are naturally occurring, most cases are caused by one of the following factors: prescription medications (usually prescribed for high blood pressure or depression), antihistamines, and adult beverages that contain alcohol.

When your mouth is dryer you have less saliva. Saliva naturally contains oxygen, which keeps your mouth healthy and fresh. The bacteria that cause halitosis are anaerobic, which again simply means that they will thrive and make more sulfur in the presence of little or no oxygen. Thus if you have less saliva, you have less oxygen, thereby creating an anaerobic environment, perfect for the bacteria to produce halitosis and sour/bitter tasting compounds.

Post Nasal Drip and Halitosis

Post nasal drip is a condition where mucous drains and coats the back of the tongue and throat. These locations of the oral environment are exactly where bacteria live. We have learned that proteins contain amino acids, which in turn contain halitosis producing sulfur compounds. Since mucous is made up of interlinked strands of protein, with the condition of post nasal drip, the bacteria has a field day breaking down the proteins into halitosis and sour tasting sulfur type compounds. Strong antihistamines will not provide any help because of their drying effect.
The Sinuses and Halitosis

After personally treating nearly 9,000 people worldwide, I have yet to see a patient get rid of halitosis following sinus surgery. First of all, these anaerobic bacteria cannot live in the sinuses. When someone has a sinus infection, one of the common symptoms are intense sinus headaches caused by the pressure from the infection in the sinus. If you don't have these powerful headaches, you probably don't have a sinus problem. The fact is that once someone has an elevated amount of these anaerobic bacteria, they will create a halitosis problem from any protein source, including mucous, phlegm, etc. which drain down the back of your throat into the area where these bacteria live.

High Protein Foods and Halitosis

Those halitosis causing bacteria love proteins, and certain foods are packed with them such as dairy foods, fish, and even coffee.
Milk and cheese and most other dairy products are high in protein. A special note if you are lactose intolerant...I recommend you not eat or drink these products! Since your system cannot digest them properly, they are available to the bacteria for an extended period of time. A research article from the Los Angeles Times (November 1996) on lactose intolerance revealed that nearly 67% of all Americans can be classified as "lactose intolerant". This is due to the fact that in a diverse population such as we have here, there is a predilection for Asians, Hispanics, and African-Americans to be lactose intolerant.
Fish is high in protein as well. As many people tend to eat a high fish diet, logically, they make a halitosis problem worse.

Coffee, with or even without caffeine, contains high levels of acids which cause the bacteria that creates halitosis to reproduce more rapidly and create a bitter taste for many people. Virtually any acidic type of food will do this.

PART III: WHAT WORKS IN SOLVING A HALITOSIS PROBLEM

In the search for products that help in solving halitosis, there is one particular ingredient I highly recommend, Oxyd-VIII. It is an active ingredient comprised of stabilized chlorine dioxide that prevents the anaerobic bacteria from creating the sulfide and Mercaptan compounds of halitosis. Oxyd-VIII does this by "adding oxygen" to the oral environment. The end result is the formation of a "sulfate" which has no odor or taste (as opposed to sulfur which has an odor and bitter/sour taste). Most of the patients I treat start out with a starter kit that contains this active oxygen producing ingredient and work their way up from there.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Harold Katz is the worldwide expert on the topic of halitosis. Are you searching for a solution to stop halitosis? Receive your FREE copy of his easy-to-read "Bad Breath Bible" by visiting: http://www.TheraBreath.com/web/art/l/truth.asp

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How To Prevent Tonsil Stones (and Why They Cause Bad Breath)

Tonsil stones, which can be found on the back of your tonsils, can create chronic Halitosis, or bad breath. Discover the truth behind what tonsil stones are, where they come from, and most importantly, some recommendations for how to rid yourself of tonsil stones without surgery.

Tonsil stones can create a condition known as Halitosis, which is a stubborn bad breath and taste disorder many people suffer from.

Tonsil stones, also called tonsilloliths, are those nasty whitish/yellow colored, foul-smelling, lumps on your tonsils. These tonsil stones are caused by an accumulation of sulfur-producing bacteria and debris that becomes lodged in the tonsils. This debris, which includes mucous from post nasal drip, putrifies in the back of your throat, and collects in what are called the tonsil crypts. These tonsil crypts are small divots or pockets which appear on the surface of the tonsils, in which the tonsil stones may accumulate.

When this debris combines with volatile sulfur compounds (VSC's) which are produced by the anaerobic bacteria beneath the surface of your tongue, along with the tonsil stones, you develop the condition known as Halitosis, more commonly known as bad breath!

Now, if you do not have your tonsils, then you will NOT (except for rare exceptions) experience tonsil stones. However, I am NOT saying that you should run out and get your tonsils removed. As we get older, tonsillectomies become increasingly dangerous. Aside from that, even if you have your tonsils removed, you will most likely still have bad breath. Why is that?

The sulfur producing bacteria breeding beneath the surface of your tongue, integral to the creation of those tonsil stones, are the most likely candidates to cause bad breath! So, even if you have your tonsils removed, unless you remove or hinder those anaerobic bad breath causing bacteria, your friends may still exhibit those tell-tale signs that you have bad breath!

Fortunately, getting rid of tonsil stones without surgery, is not that difficult...

There are a few select products that I recommend you use that will effectively eliminate tonsil stones without unnecessary surgery. What you need is something that will neutralize the anaerobic sulfur-producing bacteria on contact. For this I recommend a simple combination of AktivOxigen Tablets, Nasal Sinus Drops, and an occasional use of an Oxygenating Spray (http://www.therabreath.com/docs/tonsilstones.asp).

Keep in mind that following a regimen of using oxygenating oral care products, like toothpastes and mouthwashes, along with a tongue scraper, which effectively neutralizes the anaerobic bad breath causing bacteria from the very back of the tongue, will produce optimal results - stopping tonsil stones from ever forming again! Based on clinical tests conducted at the California Breath Clinics located in San Francisco and Los Angeles, most people following this formula reported a significant reduction or complete elimination of tonsil stones.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dr. Harold Katz is the worldwide expert on the topics of Halitosis and bad breath. Grab your FREE copy of his "Bad Breath Bible" to learn more about Halitosis and preventing bad breath by visiting: http://www.therabreath.com/web/art/l/tnssts.asp

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Bad Breath Solution

Anyone who has struggled with the problem of halitosis knows how challenging it can be to find a bad breath solution. Fortunately, this area of medical treatment, ignored for so long by everyone except the producers of mouthwashes and breath mints, is enjoying considerable close attention these days; things started to improve when we learned where the foul odor of bad breath really came from. It was the first step to developing treatments that work.

Dr. J. Tonzetich may have earned the distinction of being the first bad breath doctor when he worked out the process by which bad breath is produced in the mouth. The odor, he discovered, is caused by volatile sulfur compounds produced by bacteria in the mouth. The offensive bacteria are anaerobes, living in places in the mouth where there is little oxygen: in pockets between the gums and teeth, in the spaces between the teeth, around the tonsils, and deep between the papillae on the surface of the tongue at the back of the mouth. Understanding that these bacteria were responsible for the problem allowed researchers to start an informed search for a bad breath solution.

For most people, the appropriate bad breath doctor will be either a dentist or a medical doctor. These are the professionals who can do a proper assessment of a patient's dental and physical health to determine why the anaerobes are doing so well in the mouth. There may be periodontal disease, a sinus condition, a problem around the tonsils, post nasal drip, or even a more serious undiagnosed disease condition that requires treatment. It's important that halitosis sufferers have their condition evaluated by medical professionals before attempting their own bad breath solution.

Sometimes, there is a true bad breath doctor who can be consulted. Again, these are usually former dentists or medical doctors who have taken a special interest in helping people to find a bad breath solution. These professionals may have done their own research and developed an approach to treatment that has had considerable success. They generally operate clinics and see patients by appointment like any doctor's office. Proper assessment will include verifying that the patient truly does have a breath odor problem and checking for signs of all the problems mentioned above. Referral to a doctor or dentist may result if that appears appropriate. If you think a bad breath clinic might be the right choice for you, see if you can find one in your area - unfortunately they are quite rare.

If you are considering self-treatment of halitosis, think about trying a product recommended by a clinic bad breath doctor. Though the clinic may be inaccessible to you, the products are often available by mail or over the internet. Clinic products generally have a good reputation and a money back guarantee. You are more likely to find a bad breath solution with one of these providers than with products and vendors you know nothing about. Again however, it would be wise to consult a dentist, and possibly a medical doctor about your problem before embarking on any course of self-treatment.

By R. Drysdale

R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. She is a contributing editor to Bad Breath Solution, a blog dedicated to the treatment of bad breath.

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What Crohns Disease Sufferers Need to Know About Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Medical research has shown that Crohn’s disease sufferers can greatly improve their overall health by including more omega-3 fatty acids in their diet. Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients the body requires but cannot produce itself. They are found in fish and certain plant oils. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids, particularly those found in fish oil, have anti-inflammatory properties that can have a therapeutic effect on Crohn’s disease.

There are three major types of omega-3 fatty acids:
1. Eicosapentaenoic (EPA)
2. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA)
3. Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA)

When eaten, ALA is converted into EPA and DHA, the two fatty acids that are primarily used by the body for different process such as improving cardiovascular function, lowering blood pressure and brain function. Moreover, as was previously mentioned, the EPA and DHA have anti-inflammatory properties.

When it comes to treating Crohn’s disease with omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil supplements have been used as an alternative or complimentary treatment in a number of medical studies over the course of several years. The results of these studies have varied.

For instance, some researchers have discovered that while fish oil may help reduce preexisting inflammation, it does not actually help prevent inflammation from occurring. Furthermore, omega-3 fatty acids only appear to be a beneficial treatment for those who suffer from mild to moderate cases of Crohn’s disease.

In addition, studies have found that due to the positive influence fish oil has on intestinal cell growth, fish oil supplements may eventually increase the intestinal mucosal surface area. This would result in the increase of nutrient absorption, and improve a person’s overall nutrition.

The studies that have been conducted on the anti-inflammatory effect of fish oil show a promising future. More research must be done before it can be determined just how effective fish oil is in treating chronic inflammatory conditions such as Crohn’s disease. Before you talk to your doctor about taking fish oil supplements, you should first try the natural method of ingesting food rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Good sources included the following:

• EPA and DHA - Cold water fish (IE halibut, herring, mackerel, salmon and sardines)
• ALA – canola oil, flaxseeds and oil, pumpkin seeds and oil, perilla seed oil, purslane, walnuts and oil.
• Enriched foods – It’s also not a bad idea to eat foods that have had omega-3 included in their ingredients such as omega-3 margarine and omega-3 eggs.

In order to ensure you are receiving the recommended amount of omega-3 in your diet to help treat your Crohn’s condition, you should eat two-three servings of fish each week (approximately 1,250 mg of EPA and DHA a day). If you find it difficult to eat this amount of fish in a week, talk to your doctor about taking fish oil supplements.

Finally, although omega-3 fatty acids can help improve many of the symptoms in Crohn’s disease sufferers, remember that medical research is still being conducted to find out how beneficial fish oil supplements are for inflammatory bowel disease. While it has shown many positive side effects, some patients in studies concerning the anti-inflammatory affects of fish oils encountered symptoms of halitosis (bad breath), belching, diarrhea and constipation.

By S Dobson

Sharon Dobson has an interest in Crohn's Disease. For further information on Crohn's Disease please visit Crohn's Disease or Crohn's Disease Symptoms

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We Need to Take Better Care of Our Feet!

If there's one area of a child's growth parent's pay particular attention to it's the feet. Nationwide, Mums and Dads ensure their little ones get properly fitted shoes as they develop. Unfortunately, in many cases this 'foot care' is not carried through into adulthood and it's thought that between 50-70% of all adults either don't know their actual shoe size or they wear the wrong size on purpose to either make their feet look bigger or smaller. Either or, wearing the wrong shoe sizes is bad for the feet period.

Unless you have to wear a dress shoe, it's recommended that you try to wear sneakers or running shoes as often as possible as they are much kinder to our feet overall. This is especially important when exercising, although I've never actually seen anyone jogging in stilettos or doing aerobics in flip flops. But that said, there are still a lot of people training in fashion footwear giving priority to appearance over safety, and I'm not just referring to the youth here!

When out shopping for new footwear, always look for shoes that preferably have arch supports. Arch supports are important because they help support, protect, and strengthen your arch while on the move. Apart from muscular problems and troubles associated ligaments (a band of fibrous tissue that connects bone to bone or cartilage to bone ), other common problems associated with wrong fitting shoes are bunions, corns, calluses, athletes foot, and toe fungus.

Prevention is far better than cure here, and along with the right fitting footwear, you should also protect your feet with breathable socks, pantyhose or stockings depending on your gender of course! Also, if you suffer from sweaty or smelly feet or feet odor, always try to find footwear that is light and airy, especially during warm weather.

If you love to wear shoes with a heel, no more than one inch is your best option. Why? Because years of walking and running can wear down our feet, and can be particularly hard on the heels. Many find that after some time they're unable to wear their favorite shoes anymore because the pain coming from the ball of the foot, the arch, or the heel has just become too tender.

If you do not suffer from any 'foot' problems, then now is a great time to start taking care of your feet before you do. If you are beginning to feel a little discomfort wearing shoes then take heed. Ask yourself if the shoes you wear support and pad both your heel and your arch and have enough room for all your toes without putting a squeeze on them.

Try to wear shoes that have a good level of breathability and give you good flexibility but without being to big. If in doubt, seek advice from the professional in the shoe store as they have surely been well trained on foot care.

And finally, although cost may be an issue with some folks, try not to skimp on your footwear and avoid shoes made of vinyl or plastic wherever possible unless they are some kind of open toed water shoe or Wellington boot that does not get worn frequently.

By Andy Maingam

Read more on the importance of quality footwear including a review of the British Clarks Shoes at http://www.hipfootwear.com/. There's also a look at the Easy Spirit Shoes, plus other shoe types at Hip Footwear dot com

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Smoking Stinks

So you finally quit smoking and now you are left with that awful smell throughout your home and car. Don't worry because there are definitely some simple tricks for getting rid of the smell.
In your home:

Just like it took you some time to quit smoking it will also take some time to neutralize the odor that is left behind. A very simple way to help eliminate the smell of smoke is to place saucers of white vinegar around the room and near the affected furniture. Charcoal or baking powder has a similar effect. Leave it in the room overnight or for several days, preferably with the room closed off. Then thoroughly air out the room again.

To remove the smell from fabrics, such as furniture upholstery, sprinkle the fabric with baking soda. Leave it for a few hours, and then vacuum it off.

In your car:
After you quit smoking in your car there are many ways to remove the smell that many believe is impossible to get rid of.

Use vanilla extract. Put a large amount on a piece of rag and throw it under the car seat. It will draw the odor into the rag. If it starts smelling again, use more vanilla.

Just like in your home you can also use vinegar in your car. Place a bowl of vinegar in the car overnight, possibly for several nights. I would suggest you place it on the driver's seat so you don't forget about it the next day when you go to work.

Coffee grounds work like magic, just make sure you don't get them wet. Sprinkle a few cups where you can and leave them there for about a week. This is one of the most effective methods to remove the smell.

Baking soda, charcoal and ammonia all work well too but I would recommend you try the above methods first.For more tips visit us at TimeToQuitSmoking.info

By Willy Krahn

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How To Get Rid of Bad Breath

The problem of how to get rid of bad breath has frustrated halitosis sufferers for generations. It seems odd, and perhaps unfair, that some people have halitosis for no apparent reason, while others never have a problem. Fortunately, huge advances in medicine and science in the last 60 years have shed light on the subject, and there are now better products for dealing with unpleasant breath odor.

Bad breath help may be as near as your doctor or dentist. How is your physical health? Do you have any underlying medical conditions that might account for your problem? Consult your family doctor for confirmation that you have a problem, advice on whether a health problem could be causing your trouble, and a discussion about how to get rid of bad breath. How is your oral and dental health? While poor oral hygiene is perhaps not so closely linked with halitosis as many people believe, dental decay and gum disease can certainly foster the proliferation of anaerobic oral bacteria that produce foul odors. Your dentist can tell you if you have either of these problems.

If your general and oral health are both fine, but you still need breath odor help, you'll find a diverse selection of products on the market. It's a good idea to avoid the common breath mints, breath freshening gums and oral sprays: for the most part, these products temporarily mask the odor of bad breath but do nothing to show you how to get rid of bad breath for good (they are, however, indispensable for close encounters of short duration - like dates and interviews). Look instead for products that will work at a deeper level - products that actually eliminate the oral bacteria that cause bad breath.

Mouthwashes that contain antibacterial ingredients are not new, and they do seem to provide bad breath help. Newer approaches to the problem may be even more effective, but to date, no one has discovered how to get rid of bad breath for good. Some newer products seem to keep halitosis under continuous control as long as they are used consistently - products that release oxygen in the mouth to kill anaerobic bacteria, or use oil to gather up bacteria and carry them away. It's hard to eliminate these bacteria entirely, however, so if you stop using the product, the problem tends to recur.

The answer may lie with the body's ability to fight oral bacteria on its own. Researchers are now asking themselves whether lifestyle can play a role in how to get rid of bad breath. Is it made worse by poor diet - possibly some nutrient deficiency? Could an improved active healthy lifestyle stimulate the body's immune system to fight off the unwelcome bacteria? Hopefully, medical research in the coming years will answer this question - then we will all have access to more, and better, bad breath help.

By R. Drysdale

R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. She is a contributing editor to How to Get Rid of Bad Breath, a blog dedicated to the treatment of bad breath.

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Diabetes and Bad Breath

There is a commonly held association between diabetes and bad breath; however, the breath odor directly caused by diabetes is not the same as halitosis in the usual sense. Diabetics experience an unusual odor, often described as a sweet or fruity odor, on the breath when they are suffering from ketoacidosis.

Ketoacidosis is a severe life threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

In an undiagnosed diabetic child bad breath caused by ketoacidosis may be the first sign of serious disease. Ketoacidosis is most often seen in Type I diabetics, individuals whose pancreas does not produce enough insulin to allow their cells to take in glucose for metabolism (also the most common form of childhood diabetes). When cells need energy but cannot get it because of lack of insulin, the body attempts to rectify the situation by breaking down fat instead. The metabolism of fat produces acidic ketones, which build up in the bloodstream making it more and more acidic. The body tries to get rid of some of the ketones by expelling them in the urine and in the breath. This is what gives rise to the association between diabetes and bad breath.

When ketoacidosis is the cause of either adult or child bad breath, the breath odor problem is insignificant compared to the danger posed by the building acidity in the blood. Other symptoms of ketoacidosis include thirst and frequent urination, fatigue, nausea, aching muscles, sleepiness, coma, and rapid breathing. If you have, or suspect you have, diabetes and bad breath is associated with any of these symptoms, seek medical attention urgently.

It's possible, of course that one might have diabetes and bad breath that is not caused by ketoacidosis but arises from some other underlying problem. If ketoacidosis can be ruled out, treat the problem as would any healthy person: consider whether there is any acute or chronic infection that might be causing the trouble. Are you feeling well? Sinusitis, gum disease, throat infection, deep abscesses and malignancies can all cause both adult and child bad breath.

If there is no obvious underlying health problem that needs to be addressed, many of the products on the market today for treating chronic and uncomplicated halitosis are safe and appropriate for those with diabetes and bad breath. Consult your doctor before using anything that might affect your blood sugar levels and, of course, when treating a case of uncomplicated child bad breath, make doubly sure that a chosen breath product is safe for them.

R. Drysdale is a freelance writer with more than 25 years experience as a health care professional. She is a contributing editor to Diabetes and Bad Breath, a blog dedicated to the treatment of bad breath.

By R. Drysdale.

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Freshen up you Home - Get Rid of Odors

If your house does not smell as good as you would like it to, try these simple tips to freshen it up
Household smells can be remedied by either removing the source, by cleaning the offending article or as a last resort – disguising the smell by overlaying with a more pleasant one.

Check the contents of the refrigerator on a daily basis; throw out any which have passed their shelf lifespan. This will keep any rotting smell from pervading the inside of the refrigerator.

To minimize cooking smells use an exhaust fan or cooker hood while cooking. Leave windows open for a while, to dissipate the smell. Wipe the surfaces of the coop top and counters with a cloth dipped in hot water and lemon, along with detergent. Lemon juice and water heated in the microwave will remove lingering smells from the appliance.

To counteract odors from the kitchen sink, pour a little undiluted bleach down the plughole every few days leave overnight and then rinse thoroughly. Regular cleaning will keep bathrooms odor free.

Lighting an incense candle will take care of minor occasional smells. Keep a disinfectant block inside the toilet, and the space well-ventilated. Pour disinfectant down the waste outlets of the bathing area and washbasins to keep them clean and unblocked.

Cigarette smoke smell can be got rid of by waving a small towel dipped in water and vinegar around the room.

Pets should be discouraged from sitting on beds or sofas, as their hair and body oils can leave a strong odor. If needed slip covers can be used which can then be washed regularly.

Incense can be used to disguise any lingering smells in the house.

Good ventilation is the key to having an odor-free environment in the house. If there is no natural cross ventilation, an exhaust fan will help to throw out stale smells.

Rajiv Sahadevan is a web designer, Online Real estate agent and a successful internet marketer with 10 years of experience in the industry. See more on the author and his websites - Property In India, Real estate India. This article is a complete work of TOI Real Estate Section, Sunday Edition.

By Rajiv Sahadevan

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What Causes Chronic Bad Breath

Most people will have suffered from bad breath at some point, it's only natural and could be down to smoking, what they've eaten or perhaps they just missed brushing their teeth and their mouth has become a little stale. For others however the problem is far worse as they are inflicted with chronic bad breath and no matter what they try seem never able to rid their mouths of bad taste and odor.

Within the tongue and throat surface a harmless bacteria lives that assists with food digestion by breaking down proteins in some foods. In some cases the bacteria accelerate this process and this causes an excess of amino acids that are high in Sulfur and it is when the harmless bacteria meets the amino acids that the halitosis and bad tasting compounds are released.

Chronic bad breath causes

There are many possible causes of halitosis but two I'd like to focus on here are for those whose chronic bad breath is due to dry mouth. In this condition the mouth lacks saliva and because saliva contains oxygen which keeps your mouth fresh and healthy the bacteria that causes bad breath are able to thrive.

The bacteria causing chronic bad breath also thrive on foods that are high in proteins such as meat, fish, dairy foods and surprisingly coffee. If your diet is high in these food types it is making the problem worse.

Coffee, whilst not a high protein food contains acids that stimulate the bacteria that causes bad breath to reproduce and creates a bitter taste and foul breath for many, most acidic foods will have the same effect.

Seeking a breath odor cure
It might be possible to effect a cure for bad breath by making a change to your diet but that might not suit everyone. An alternative is to improve the condition within the mouth by changing the environment so that the bacteria are unable to reproduce.

One solution uses stabilized chlorine dioxide that adds oxygen to the mouth using oral rinse or a mouth wash. Increasing the levels of oxygen in the mouth makes the mouth fresher and less hospitable for those bad bacteria.

Rinsing your mouth and brushing your teeth after meals can also help as this will remove plaque and freshen the mouth as well as introducing oxygen into the mouth. It can also help when brushing if you brush both your tongue and cheeks as this will stimulate the surface oxygenating as it goes.

It goes without saying that brushing the teeth first thing in the morning and last thing at night is essential if you are to cure bad breath be it mild or chronic.John Buckle, webmaster and author has compiled a useful resource of Dental Care information and Dental Care Products. Check out his main site at http://www.eliminate-bad-breath.info/

By John Buckle

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Do You Have Bad Breath?

Do you often cover your mouth when you speak or often look away while talking with somebody? Do you spend a lot of money buying every brand of breath freshener you see on ads everyday? Are you worried about your breath?

With the many ads bombarding us everyday implying that people somehow are secretly repulsed by our breath, many of us probably will wonder, "Do I have bad breath or am I offending other people with my breath?" This is usually a pointless concern. Only very few people have halitosis or true bad breath, fewer than the common ads usually imply. Chronic halitosis is usually caused by some underlying medical or dental problems.

We all have natural breath odors. There are common breath odors and most often, these are mild and temporary. Your breath may sometimes smell a little sour and you are not alone. Everyone's breath grows increasingly pungent from adolescence on.

Food can spoil your breath. The most common food offenders are garlic and onion. These can stay in your breath up to 24 hours even after you brush your teeth. More often food particles can be the cause of bad breath. Food particles left in between the teeth usually rot and produce the smell. Flossing will usually remove these food particles when brushing alone fails to dislodge them. Smoking and drinking too can leave their trace in your breath.

While eating too much and leaving behind food particles in your mouth can cause breath odor, not eating at all can still produce bad breath. Dieters often develop mildly unpleasant "hunger breath". Taking in some food can easily cure this problem. Have you noticed your breath every time you wake up in the morning? This is what we call "morning breath". This is due to less movement of the tongue while we sleep and the slow secretion of saliva. Because of this lesser activity in our oral cavity, the dead cells that line our mouth are no longer rubbed off, swallowed or washed away. Those dead cells are then broken down by bacteria producing bad odor. This however usually disappears as soon as we brush our teeth or take in some food.

True halitosis or bad breath is commonly caused by dental problems. Poor dental hygiene can lead to gum disease. Gum disease is a common cause of bad breath. If you fail to clean your mouth regularly, you allow the dental plaque to accumulate along the gum lines and dental surfaces causing gum disease. Dental plaque is a white sticky film that contains bacteria, saliva and food debris. The accumulation of dental plaque along the dental surfaces and gum lines eventually create dental pockets in between gums and teeth. The bacteria found inside the dental pockets break down proteins and dead cells producing offensive odors. The odor may be intensified by the decaying blood from the bleeding gums. If the halitosis is not dental in nature, it may be caused by an underlying medical problem. The problem can usually be traced to a local infection in the respiratory tract like the nose, throat, windpipe and lungs. The respiratory infection can be a chronic sinusitis with postnasal drip or it can also be bronchitis. There are also cases when the causative factors are gastrointestinal problems like hiatal hernia or diverticulum of the esophagus.

Dry mouth can also cause halitosis. Any conditions causing dry mouth can lead to bad breath. These include dehydration, salivary gland disorders, fever and some medications. Breathing through the mouth can also cause halitosis.

If the cause of halitosis is a dental illness like gum disease, proper oral hygiene can usually curb the problem. Visit your dentist regularly and have your teeth cleaned professionally twice a year. Proper tooth brushing techniques and flossing can usually remove the plaque and food debris in between the teeth and gum lines. Brush your teeth after every meal including in between snacks. It will also be helpful to gently brush your tongue especially if it is coated. The bacteria on your tongue can also cause bad breath.

By Michael Russell
Your Independent Dental guide

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When It Comes To Treating A Bad Breath Problem You Have Numerous Options

Bad breath is a problem that can affect anyone from time to time. It’s a very unattractive problem that can lead to a decrease in social standings. In this article, we’ll examine the problem posed by halitosis, work towards understanding the problem, and offer some solutions for solving the problem.

There are actually three different types of halitosis: they are known as transient bad breath, chronic bad breath and fetor hepaticus.

Transient bad breath occurs normally in most people, and is a temporary issue. It is most often caused by a dryness of the mouth, stress, a need to eat, odors left by certain foods, smoking, or not taking care of your dental health. This type of bad breath will disappear on its own eventually, but can be quickly aided by the presence of gum or a brushing of the teeth.

Chronic bad breath, on the other hand, is a problem that is faced by roughly twenty five percent of the population. Chronic bad breath can cause a person to feel stressed out and may make them have lower self esteem. Chronic bad breath may be caused by the presence of bacteria in the mouth. In particular, the bacterium known as streptococcus mutans is most often responsible for a case of chronic bad breath.

Fetor hepaticus is a severe form of bad breath that is actually caused by a failure of the liver. This type of bad breath is especially excruciating, and the smell that it causes can be extremely foul.

While our mouths are home to many different forms of bacteria, there is a type of bacteria known as anaerobic bacteria that can really be the cause of bad breath. This type of bacteria lives on the tongue and continues to grow, using the food that we eat and dead cells to multiply.

These types of bacteria undergo anaerobic respiration, which causes them to release sulfur compounds that can cause breath odor. Other health problems such as periodontis, helminthiasis, diabetes, and gastroesophageal reflux disease may also be responsible for bad breath.

When it comes to treating a bad breath problem , you have numerous options. While some opt for the quick fix of mints or mouthwash, these solutions only provide a temporary means for getting rid of the bad breath. Also, you should be cautioned to avoid the use of alcohol-based mouthwashes to treat your bad breath; they dry out the mouth, and may cause more trouble than they are worth. It is of the utmost importance to ensure that you are not leaving particles of food in your mouth that allow for the bacteria to multiply.

To that end, you are recommended to brush after every meal and floss on a daily basis. You may also want to consider purchasing a tongue brush, a specialized device that can help to remove the bacteria present on the tongue.

Now that you know some of the basics of bad breath, you are better suited to fighting the problem. Cleanliness and dedication are paramount to keeping your bad breath problem under control.

By Christain Cullen

If you want to read more about your bad breath click over to Christain's site at the-healthguide.com

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Post Nasal Drip and Its Effect on Bad Breath

One cause of bad breath and a lousy taste in your mouth is the condition of post nasal drip. Find out how post nasal drip affects your breath and learn the key formulas on how to solve this problem.

Bad breath is very closely related to post nasal drip, excess mucus, sinus problems, your tonsils, and tonsiloliths.

In my book "The Bad Breath Bible" I discuss how the bacteria which causes bad breath and sour/bitter/metallic tastes are anaerobic, meaning they live without oxygen. The bacteria's goal in life is to break down the proteins in foods that we eat. However, under certain conditions, they will also start to break down the proteins found in post nasal drip.

Therefore, those people who suffer from post nasal drip, sinus problems, and other such ailments are more prone to bad breath and lousy tastes in their mouth. The anaerobic bacteria uses the post nasal drip mucus as a food source and starts to extract sulfur compounds from the amino acids that make up the proteins found in all this excess mucus.

Scientifically, the anaerobic bacteria that cause bad breath "love" the amino acids Cysteine and Methionine. These amino acids are the building blocks of the proteins that are found in post nasal drip, and can even be found in dairy foods. In fact, most people notice that when they drink too much milk or eat too much cheese, they end up with more mucous or phlegm in their throat. This is a natural reaction for many people and unfortunately, ends up causing more bad breath and a lousy taste in your mouth.

If you still have your tonsils, you may be harboring a higher number of the bacteria which can lead to an "interesting" and very often misunderstood phenomenon, called TONSILOLITHS.
Literally translated, they are "tonsil stones" produced by the conglomeration of post nasal drip mucus draining down the back of the throat, and the volatile sulfur compounds created by the bacteria. These bacteria easily end up in the "nooks and crannies" of the tonsils every time one swallows. I can't tell you how many stories I've heard from my patients who asked their dentist what these objects were, and more often than not the answer was 'food particles'. This couldn't be further from the truth!

WHAT CAN YOU DO IF YOU SUFFER FROM POST NASAL DRIP, EXCESS MUCUS, AND SINUS CONGESTION?
There are essentially only a few different routes that you can take:

1. Use medication and or drugs to dry up the sinuses and prevent post nasal drip mucus buildup - all the while being careful to avoid a dry mouth, a likely side-effect of virtually all antihistamines. Dry mouth is the most common initiator of bad breath because it mimics an anaerobic environment, perfect for the "bugs" to pump out volatile sulfur compounds. You should be careful about using any antihistamine too frequently - many are habit forming!

2. Use TheraBreath Nasal Sinus Formula. I recommend squeezing 3-4 drops into each nostril and then lightly inhaling to move the potent formula through the sinuses twice daily. Most people can finally experience that fresh breath and taste feeling after the formula effectively eliminates the production of sulfur compounds created by the reaction of post nasal drip and the anaerobic sulfur producing bacteria.

3. For chronic post nasal drip and sinus problems, many patients will find relief by using the HydroPulse. This is an amazingly effective nasal-sinus irrigator, designed by an Ear Nose & Throat specialist to flush the sinuses. It works even better when you add just 2-3 drops of AktivOxigen serum into the trough before each use.

4. Minimize the amount of post nasal drip in your throat and sinuses, and eliminate the #1 side effect of excess mucus (bad breath!) by using oxygenating oral care products, such as TheraBreath, TheraBreath PLUS, AktivOxigen, PerioTherapy, and TheraBrite.

Medication and drugs MAY help prevent post nasal drip, but at what cost?
There are dozens of different over-the counter nasal decongestants and antihistamines you can use to help relieve congestion and dry up post nasal drip symptoms. Some of them are very good at what they claim but mostly they are TOO GOOD! They create an extremely dry mouth, which exacerbates bad breath. Even in cases where the dry mouth side effect is minimal, when you stop taking that medication the problem comes back, and almost always with a vengeance! This is because in some cases, your body will actually develop a resistance to any antihistamines or nasal decongestants, especially nasal sprays. You must be careful, because many sprays are habit forming - but NOT TheraBreath formulas!

Suffice it to say, using over-the-counter nasal decongestants and antihistamines should NOT be an option that you pursue. Instead, I suggest using a nasal-irrigator such as the HydroPulse to flush your sinuses free from post nasal drip mucus.

Nasal irrigation is probably the most effective method of eliminating post nasal drip and helping to control sinus infections. The HydroPulse Sinus Irrigator is an FDA registered device supported by over 37 published medical reports. The unique pulsatile irrigation of the HydroPulse helps to restore ciliary function and relieve post nasal drip. A short period of regular use can stimulate the cilia, which are the tiny hair-like fibers in the nasal sinus passages, to restore their natural protective "sweeping & cleansing" action. When you feel a sinus condition come on, or feel that you have persistent post nasal drip and excess mucus, consistent daily use for 10 days should result in a clearing of the condition. For best results, I recommend a combination of this easy-to-use home instrument with an oxygenating solution such as AktivOxigen serum.

TIPS ON HOW TO STOP BAD BREATH ASSOCIATED WITH POST NASAL DRIP:

For people who don't really have sinus problems, just "off and on" or seasonal post nasal drip, then an alternative (and better) solution might be to minimize the amount of excess mucus in the back of the throat and more importantly to make sure you neutralize the odor caused by this excess mucus.

There are three key formulas that most of my patients find extremely effective at neutralizing the odor caused by post nasal drip:

1. Nasal Sinus Drops - which are highly effective at cleaning the sinuses (a very hard to reach area) of the volatile sulfur compounds that cause bad breath.

2. AktivOxigen Tablets - which can be added to an unflavored oral rinse that you can actually swallow. The solution gets deeper down in the throat than just regular rinsing, and will actually help break down post nasal drip congestion and excess mucus in the throat.

3. Extinguisher Spray - an extremely popular nozzle applicator spray that is very efficient in reaching the back of the throat and tonsils. These are common problem areas for people who suffer from post nasal drip and excess mucus in the throat.

I've been here for the last 10 years to help patients prevent bad breath, sinus congestion, and lousy tastes, and I'll be here for many more years to come.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dr. Harold Katz, founder of the California Breath Clinics, is a worldwide expert on the topics of bad breath, halitosis, and dry mouth. To receive your FREE copy of his easy-to-read "Bad Breath Bible" visit: http://www.therabreath.com/web/art/pnd.asp

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Odors, Mildew and your Washing Machine

A modern clothes washing machine can suffer from odors or mildew. It may build to the point where the odors seem to overwhelm all other aspect of the clothes washing experience. The causes can be varied but generally are due to moisture build-up within the clothes tub.

Since the washing machine itself operates full of water the presence of moisture is typical. The problems usually begin either when the water is not removed at the end of the cycle by the drain system, or for some other reason, excess water accumulates inside the tub.

If the drain system is suspected test the clothes immediately after the cycle has ended. The ‘cheek method’ works well. Remove a towel from your completed load of washing. Place it against your cheek. The towel should feel cool against your cheek without feeling wet. If the towel feels wet place it back into the washing machine and re-spin the load. If a second spin removes more moisture then your washing machine is not reaching its maximum spin speed.
Associated with the slow spin speed is overloading of the washer. To test for overloading wait until your normal load has completed and come to a full stop. Then remove two or three items and restart the cycle from the rinse position. Let the washing machine fill with water, and go completely through the rinse, drain, and spin cycles. Again let the machine complete the cycle and come to a full stop. If the clothes are now properly spun, suspect overloading.

There are many things that can affect the spin speed. The most common is an unbalanced load. An unbalanced load will not allow the tub to reach the maximum spin speed. It’s usually accompanied by the washing machine either jumping, or being noisy. If this is allowed to continue moisture will remain inside the tub at cycle’s end. This will cause the machine to smell musty and can eventually lead to the presence of mildew.

All washing machines must come to maximum spin speed to remove the moisture from the clothes. Although the drain pump will remove the majority of water, it is the spinning that removes the moisture from the clothing. If for any reason the maximum spin speed is not reached the moisture within the clothing will tend to redeposit itself inside the washing machine.

This is common for people who allow the wet clothes to sit inside the machine long after the wash cycle has been completed. This simple act often leads to odors or mildew. For this reason avoid washing right before bedtime, or before going to work in the morning.

If your washing machine is a front-loading style the possibility of odors is something about which you must be aware. Moisture can accumulate at both the inside surface of the door and the interior. To alleviate this problem dry off the inside surfaces of the door with a clean cloth as soon as your washing is finished. If possible, leave the door slightly open after your washing is completed. This allows warm room air to enter the machine while the machine sits idle.

Also, gently wipe off the rubber seal at the front of the washing machine. It often has grooves, ridges, or small crevices in its surface where water can accumulate. Be aware that along with the wash water will be a small amount of detergent. If allowed to accumulate it can become sour and heighten the bad smell. This is especially possible for anyone with sloppy washing habits.

A final note about front-loading washers is in regard to liquid fabric softeners. If used full strength they may be involved in the odor problem. When used full strength it can become deposited in the detergent dispenser or the front door seal. Once deposited the softener can become sticky, allowing lint and dirt from the clothes to adhere to these surfaces. This washing debris can then cause a smell if left to build up.

At full strength from the bottle their concentration may be too high for the small quantity of water used within a front loader. Liquid fabric softeners should be diluted before placed into these washers. The recommended mixture is six parts of water to every one part of softener.

To regulate your liquid fabric softener, keep a pre-mixed amount in a secondary bottle. When fabric softener is required pour it into the washing machine from the pre-mixed rather than the original bottle.

If your clothes washing machine presently has an odor use some of the above methods to isolate the cause. If cleaning the problem area is unsuccessful you may need to take further action. Many consumer websites suggest multiple applications of hot water and a cup of white vinegar.

This may be helpful. My experience has shown this method is more preventative than corrective. For washing machine odours we generally recommend the use of a strong washing machine cleaner. One of the most affective is Glisten. Another one is called Ysano. Both can be purchased at most appliance parts stores. At a price of approximately $10 it is well worth the investment.

By Donald Grummett

Copyright 2006 Donald Grummett. All rights reserved. Need answers about repairs and maintenance of Household Appliances? With 35 years experience Donald Grummett can help. Visit http://www.mgservices.ca/ to learn much more invaluable information.

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