Bad Breath and Gingivitis

Bad Breath and Gingivitis

 by: David Snape

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

Gum Disease Home Remedy In Your Kitchen

For those of us with a sweet tooth, there is good news on the dental front. Despite the fact that raisins are sweet and sticky, scientists at the University of Illinois in Chicago have found them to contain compounds that prevent tooth decay and gingivitis.

There are a number of constituents in raisins that address the problem of plaque-causing bacteria in the mouth. Some, like oleanolic acid are very good at killing these bacteria. Oleanolic acid, oleanolic aldehyde, and 5-(hydroxy methyl)-2-furfural also reduce the ability of these bacteria to grow. In particular, they work against Streptococcus mutans, and Porphyromonas gingivalis.

Oleanolic acid is also effective at preventing the bacteria Streptococcus mutans from sticking to the surface of the tooth, The bacteria need to stick to the teeth to form plaque, after which they start eroding the tooth enamel. Sucrose, not the fructose and glucose that raisins have in them, are what creates the environment for tooth decay.

Cranberries have also been found to prevent bacteria (specifically Streptococcus mutans) from sticking to teeth, and causing gum disease and tooth decay. There are now dental floss products and toothpastes in the US that contain cranberry extract. And the British Dental Health Foundation is recommending cranberry extracts and juice to prevent tooth decay and associated problems. But because of cranberry juice's acidity, they recommend only taking it at mealtimes. Acidic food and drinks temporarily soften the enamel on teeth.

Symptoms of gum disease include red and swollen gums that bleed easily, tooth sensitivity, spaces developing between teeth, pus between teeth, chronic bad breath, pain in the mouth, and changes to the bite of teeth. Plaque is the main cause of gum disease, though other factors can speed up the process of gum degradation. These include smoking, a genetic predisposition, pregnancy, puberty, stress, poor diet (and yo-yo dieting wouldn't help), medications like anti-depressants, and oral contraceptives, grinding teeth at night, diabetes, and some other systemic diseases.

References:
1. www.perio.org
2. www.nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=60518
3. www.nutraingredients.com/news/ng.asp?id=567

Find out what the other bad breath causes are here. And if you suffer toothache as a result of gum disease, try these home remedy for a toothache ideas to help you manage the pain until you can get to the dentist.

How can I prevent toothache and gum disease?

Even if you clean your teeth so that they are 'squeaky clean' (run your finger across your front teeth after thoroughly cleaning the area and it will feel squeaky clean), it only takes 30 minutes for the saliva in your mouth to begin coating your teeth with what is called an 'acquired pellicle'. This is a kind of skin which bacteria called 'streptococcus mutans' use to adhere to the tooth surface. As the streptococcus mutans find sugars to metabolize in the mouth, they produce plaque and acid, which then begins the cycle of tooth decay. Dentists now recommend that teeth should be cleaned thoroughly at least once every 24 hours to prevent the build up of plaque and dangerous levels of acid. Of course, it is extremely unlikely that a person could remove ALL plaque in one brushing. That is why they recommend brushing twice a day to ensure that most plaque is removed over a 24 hour period.

As people get older, their gingival (gum) health diminishes. Gums become less able to heal themselves and lesions and infections may stay in the mouth longer in adults than they do in children. That is why it is vital that adults floss between their teeth at least once a day. Without flossing, food can become impacted, affecting the periodontal ligaments that hold the teeth into their sockets. Old vagrant people often have the appearance of having extra 'long' teeth. This is simply the gums receding away from the crown of the tooth and revealing part of the root of the tooth that is usually covered by the gum. When gums are being affected by acid from plaque, they begin to recede. If this is not checked and reversed, the teeth become loose and eventually fall out.
A condition popularly known as 'trench mouth' (severe ulcerative gingivitis) was the scourge of land armies around the world during World Wars 1 and II, and many men lost their teeth through this acute disease of the gums. Their diet of Anzac-type cookies, bread and pre-packaged and canned foods were high in fermentable carbohydrates (sugars) and conditions in the trenches precluded regular brushing. Poor oral hygiene and a diet high in sugar soon produced thick wads of acidic plaque that lay around the mouth and burnt into gums. Soft gums are highly susceptible to acid attacks. The first sign of poor gum health is bleeding and swelling. The gums lose their 'stippled' effect and become shiny and red. It they are not cleaned at this point, they become ulcerated and painful. Trench mouth, however, is not just a condition that affected men in wars past. Even today, if oral hygiene is neglected, trench mouth can affect anyone. It is a highly contagious condition and should be referred to a dentist who can prescribe an oxygenating mouthwash and antibiotics.

Article by health writer Kate Wiley of http://www.healthy-shopper.com Health in 1 http://www.health-in-1.comand Advice on Health http://www.advice-on-health.com
You may use this article on your website providing you include the above author bio and active link to our health sites.

Kate and Phil Wiley run the popular health sites http://www.healthy-shopper.com Health in 1 http://www.health-in-1.comand Advice on Health http://www.advice-on-health.com

How Does Gingival Graft Help In Treating Gingival Recession

Without the signs of periodontitis such as bleeding gums, swelling gums, and loose teeth, you can still have gum or gingival recession. It develops during the corrosion of the cementum, a bony substance covering the root of a tooth. This causes the dentin to be exposed, making your teeth more sensitive to hot and cold food.

Gingiva protects your teeth against bacteria by forming a tight seal around the teeth. It also absorbs shock from eating and brushing. Mucosa which lies below gingiva is very thin. So, it is more vulnerable to trauma. In addition, it doesn't cover tightly around the tooth.

If you have only minor recession, you don't need dental treatment. The remaining gingiva that are not affected will protect the tooth. All you need is good oral hygiene and proper home care.

If the recession hits the mucosa, then your bodily defensive mechanism is compromised. This makes the supporting structure of the teeth susceptible to the bacteria attack. The root of the teeth will be more sensitive to cold and hot food. If the recession gets worse, the root surface will be exposed. Consequently, root caries will form.

For an effective solution, you may need a gingival graft especially for severe recession of the gum. This involves reconstruction of your gum. Usually, gingival graft requires the administration of local anesthetic. The dentist will either take a thin layer of tissue from the roof of the mouth or place the nearby tissue to cover the affected gingiva surrounding the tooth. This will create a barrier in resisting bacterial invasion and further recession. The whole process takes about 30 to 60 minutes. You will then come back a week later to have the stitches removed.

As you can see now, gum recession can happen without gum disease. Don't delay the treatment if you suspect you have a minor recession. Simple home care methods and correct dental hygiene can save you lots of troubles from gingival recession. Even if the recession is serious, gingival grafts can offer you excellent long-term results.

Andy Lim publishes several gum disease remedies articles to prevent gum diseases. If you are interested in alternative medicine, read about herbal gum disease remedies at his web site.

Effect Of Inflammation Upon Human Gingival Oxidative Metabolism

CytOChrome oxidase and NADH cytochrome c reductase activities were analyzed biochemically in gingiv.il hiops> specimens obtained from 22 male patients (age 23-72) undergoing periodontal treatment. Histologically. 13 specimens exhibited mild inflammation, while 9 showed more severe inflammatory responses. Cytochrome oxidase activity was significantly greater in the mildly inflamed than in markedly inflamed tissue samples. NADH cytochrome c reductase activity on the other hand was not significantly altered by the increasing degree of inflammation. The possible implication of the effect of inflammation upon oxidative enzymes is discussed in relation to degenerative and proliferative changes occurring in both types of tissue.

Introduction

Cytochrome oxidase (E.C1.9.3.1.) and NADH cytochrome C reductase (E.C.I, 6. 2. I.) were determined in essentially normal human gingiva (Eichel & Sharhrik 1964), however these parameters have not been previously analyzed in relation to the effects imposed by gingival inflammation. Endogenous respiration studies revealed that the QOj is stimulated in mild gingival inflammation, and depressed in highly inflamed gingiva (Glickman el al. 1949, Manhold & Volpe 196.1). On the other hand recent polarographie studies (Zajieck & Kindlova 1972) revealed that initial QO_. values remained constant in human gingiva and were not significantly altered by the degree of inflammation. In light of these divergent views, we wish to report on the effect of inflammation upon cytochrome oxidase and NADH cytochrome c reductase activities in total homogenates of human gingiva.

Methods and Materials

Tissue Preparation

Human gingival biopsy specimens were obtained irom 22 male patients (age 23-72), undergoing periodontal treatment. Regional block anesthesia was administered to avoid infiltration of the tissue. The tissue was surgically removed and cut into two portions one of which was prepared for histologic study. The other was washed in cold 0.075 M phosphate buffer pH 7.0. to remove adhering blood and quickly frozen at - 70?C on dry ice. The fro/en gingival samples were analyzed for their enzymatic activity within one day after their removal. Gingival homogenates were prepared by a modification of the methods (Hoober & Bernstein 1966) utilized tor the homogenization of rat skin. The frozen gingival tissue (25 -5U mg wet wt.) was immersed in liquid N, (-270'C) for 3 minutes, and pulverized to small granular fragments. The gingival fragments were homogenized in cold buffer in Ten Broeck ground glass homogenizers which were ground to fit with a clearance tolerance o( (1.1-0.15 mm. The enzymatic activities were determined immediately after tissue homogenization.

Enzyme Analysis

Cytochrome oxidase (E. C. 1. 9. 3. 1.) (Wainio et al. 1951) was determined spectrophotometrically hy following the oxidation of dithionite reduced cytochrome c* at I al 25?C in a Gilford Model 2400 spectrophotometer. In nil experiments the auto-oxidation rate of lerrocytoehrome c before the addition of the enzyme was negligible. The E.VHI "", absorbance values for homogenate settling were for the most part negligible (0.0 % in 16 samples), and where detected they ranged from 0,(12-13.0'; of the enzymatic value. The average settling value was 2.5 ? 0.9 ci for the 22 samples which were analyzed. Settling values were determined by re-reducing the reaction media with excess dithionite, resuspending the homogenate in the reaction media, and following the change in optical absorbance at Ejaonni vs- time graphically. The settling values were subtracted from the total observed absorbance value obtained in the affected enzyme assays, and the specific activities were determined from the corrected values. The reaction mixture contained: 75 mM KH..PO|-Na,.HPO4 buffer pH 6.75. 5.6 uM cytochrome c and (25-150) jig protein (homogenale) in a final volume of 300 u. Cytochrome c concentration was determined from the millimolar extinction coefficient of cytochrome c H-,,-,;, t]ll = 18.5 mm ' cm ' for the reduced minus oxidized cvtoehrome c.

NADH Cytochrome c Reductase. NADH cytochrome c reductase (E. C. 1. 6. 2. 1.) (Jeng et al. 1968) was determined by following the reduction of cytochrome c at Er,,Tnm at 25'C. The millimolar extinction coefficient utilized for cytochrome c in the cytochrome oxidase assay was utilized for this assay. The assay system contained: 33 mM KHiPOi-NaoHPO., pH 7.75 buffer, S.2 ftM cytochrome c, 3.0mM KCN, 85 /LIM NADH.** and (25-150) ^g protein (homogenate) in final volume of 300 II.

Specific Activities

Specific activities are expressed as nanomoies of cytochrome c oxidized (cytochrome oxidase) or reduced (NADH cytochrome c reductase) per mg protein per min.

Protein Determination

Tissue homogenates (10-20 /A) were digested in 0.05 N NaOH (final concentration) for one hour at 25?C, and analyzed for protein by the method of Lowry et al.. (1951). Crystalline albumin*** was used as a standard.

Statistics

The mean, standard deviation and standard error were determined for each group. Values exceeding the limits ? 1.96 SD were discarded. The difference between each group was analyzed by the "student t" test and all values p < .05 or less were considered to be significant.

Reagents

NADH** (Grade 111!, and cytochrome e* (type I 11 Horse Heart I, were obtained from Sigma Chemical Corp., St. Louis, Mo. Crystalline albumin*** was obtained from Pentex Corp. Kankakee, 111.

Histologic Evaluation

The biopsy specimens were cut at 7 /i and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Each section was diagnosed as mild, moderate or

224 FINE. EGNOR, F O M T E C C H I O , FROUM, SCOPP AND STAHL

severely inflamed depending on (he extent of inflammatory infiltrate found in the represenlativc sections of the specimens.

Results

Histological ami Clinical Evaluations

Histologic evaluation of the biopsy specimens revealed that 13 gingival samples fell within the mildly inflamed category, mid 9 samples were designated as severely inflamed. The specific activities of cytochrome oxidase, and NADH cytochrome c reductase activities were correlated with the observed degree of gingival inflammation and the data was statistically analyzed.

C 'ytochrome Oxidase

(Cytochrome oxidase specific activity) was found to decline from 5.4 ? 0.7 in mildly inflamed to 3.0 ? 0.3 in severely inflamed gingiva (Table I). The specific activity of (he mildly inflamed was significantly greater (p < .001) that that of the severely inflamed gingival samples.

NADH Cytochrome c Reductase

NADH cytochrome c reductase activity was not altered significantly by the degree of gingival inflammation. The specific activities were 16.5 ? 1.6, and 15.3 ? 2,1 respectively in mildly and severely inflamed gingiva

Discussion

Although the consistency of inflamed gingiva may vary considerably from area to area, and thereby effect the degree of fragmentation, this does not appear to be the case in our preparations. The exposure of our gingival tissues to liquid N.>. pulverization of the (issue, thawing and subsequent homogenization appears to adequately disrupt the cells. Evidence for this interpretation lies in the observation that the distribution of NADH cytochrome c reductase in both mildly inflamed and markedly inflamed gingiva did not vary significantly. If the decline in cytochrome oxidase was influenced by our tissue preparation techniques, similar results should be observed in the NADH cytochrome c reductase distributions. The amount of settling in our assay system was found to be negligible for the most part and it could not account for the marked decline in cytochrome oxidase activity observed in markedly inflamed gingiva.

The elevated cylochiomc oxidase activity observed in our study coincides with the observations made by Manhold and Volpj (1963) in their endogenous QCK respiration studies of mildly inflamed and proliferating human gingiva. The increase in QOL> and cytochrome oxidase in gingiva may reflect increased mitochondrial high energy bond (ATP) synthesis, which is required to sustain the highly synthelic processes associated with DNA synthesis, mitosis, as well as cellular proliferation. Further evidence for the increased bioencrgelic requirements in the pre-proliferating and proliferative stages of cell development is the observation that increased QOL. (endogenous respiration) (Glickman el al. 1949), and cytochrome oxidase (Fine 197(1) reaches peaks in activity at a time when major increases in the mitolic index and proliferation (epitheiialization) occur in regenerating gingival and skin wounds. On the other hand ihe sharp decline in cytochrome oxidase and endogenous QOo observed in markedly inflamed (Manhold & Volpe 1963, Giickman et al. 1949) gtngiva appear to be reflections of changes occurring within the mitochondria as well as other subcellular components during significant gingival tissue destruction. We were unable to delect an increase in cytochrome oxidase in markedly inflamed and proliferating gingiva. although increases in the endogenous QO. was detected by Giickman et al. (1949) in this type of gingival pathology. However, it is conceivable lhal as inflammation subsides, a preproliferative phase (S phase of mitosis) occurs within the migrating cells at the wound edge which requires increased ATP synthesis. Subsequently an increase in endogenous QOL. is also observed. Our cytochrome oxidase data, and the data reported for endogenous respiration QOj do not coincide with the polarographic QO. observations made by Zajieek and Kindlova (1972), who reported thai the initial QO_> values remained constant in human gingiva, and were not significantly altered by the degree of inflammation.

NADH cytochrome c reductase activity was not markedly altered by the degree of inflammation in human gingiva. Our data for human gingiva parallel the observation made by Eichel and Shahrik (1964), for human non-inflamed gingiva. NADH cylochrome c reductase activity was found to be significantly greater than cytohrome oxidase in our studies which correlates with the observation made by Eiehcl and Shahrik <19M). On the other hand cytochrome oxidase activity (total homogenate) was found to be significantly greater than NADH cytochrome c reductase in normal rat gingiva (Fine 1970, Fine et a!. 1973a) using identical assay methods. This suggests that NADH cytochrome c reductase is not primarily associated with gingival mitochondria. Recent substantiating studies (Fine et al. 1973a, 1973b) showed the enzyme to be chiefly distributed within the soluble and microsomal subcellular fractions in rodent and human gingiva.

The variation in cytochrome oxidase activity with increasing inflammation provides information regarding the characteristics of terminal respiration in human gingiva in relation to the diseased state. The effect of inflammation upon NADH cytochrome e reductase distribution and specific activities at the subcellular level are currently under investigation.

A. S. FlNfc, R. EGNOR, K. FONTLCCHIO, S. FROUM, 1- W. SCOPP AND S. S. STAHl. Department of Dental Research, Veterans Administration Hospital New York, N. Y. and Department of Periodontics, Brookdale Denial Center of New York University, New York. N. Y.. U. S. A.

References

Eichel, B. & Shahrik, S. 1964. Cytochemicul aspects of oidative enzyme metabolism in gingiva. Adv. Oral Biol. 1: 131-174. Fine, A. S. 1970. The biochemical determination of cytochrome oxidase and NADH cyto chrome c rcductase activity in gingiva and skin during wound healing in rats of various ages. Thesis New York University. Fine, A. S., Scopp, I. W. & Egnor. R. 1973a. Subcellular distribution of NADH cytochrome c reductase in rat gingiva. J. Dent. Res. 52: 387. Fine, A. S., Scopp, 1. W., Egnor, R., Froum, S., Thaler, R. & Stahl, S. S. 1973b. Subcellular distribution of oxidative enzymes in human inflamed and dilantin hyperplastic gingiva. J. Dem. Res. 52: Abst. 147. Giickman, I., Turesky, S. & Hill, R. 1949. Determination of oxygen consumption in normal and inflamed gingiva using the Warburg manometric technique. J. Dent. Res. 28: 83-94. Hoober, J. K. & Bernslein, I. A. 1966. Protein synthesis related (o epidermal differentiation. Proe. Nut. Acud. Sci. 56: 594-601. Jeng, M., Hall, C, Crane. F. L., Takahashi, N., Tamura, S. & Folkers, K. 1968.

 

Can Bleeding Gums Kill You?

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Can Bleeding Gums and Other Periodontal Diseases Kill You?

Recent research in Europe and the U.S. have proven a link between an increase in oral sulfur compounds (from bad breath), which then initiate gum disease and bleeding gums (which are truly open wounds in your mouth). These open bleeding sites allow other dangerous toxins to enter the body's blood stream.

There is a strong relationship between gum disease and bad breath, because volatile sulfur compounds (found in bad breath) are needed to initiate the penetration of dangerous toxins below the gum line to start periodontal disease. This new research corroborates our work in finding a non-surgical treatment for gum disease.

We strongly encourage the use of a top quality floss to provide a superior level of oral hygiene.

When searching for the right therapy program to prevent periodontal disease, be sure to make sure it includes the following items:

PeriO2: This active ingredient releases potent Oxygen molecules when in contact with these sulfur compounds. Immediately, a chemical conversion takes place that eliminates them safely and effectively. Once the Thiols (sulfur compounds) are reduced, their initiation of allowing
toxins into the blood stream disappears.

Whole Leaf Aloe Vera: This is not your ordinary aloe vera. It is specially grown for us in green houses to maintain its high concentration of Pharmaceutical Level elements. As everyone knows even "plain" aloe vera has been used to stop bleeding as a natural healing agent for thousands of years. Tests performed at a large metropolitan
hospital on Whole Leaf Aloe Vera indeed confirm its healing highly beneficial qualities.

Tea Tree Oil: This is the secret ingredient in many "natural" Medications. Tea Tree Oil is extracted through a complicated process from the leaves of an Australian tree. Physicians in the Southern Hemisphere have turned to the Melalucca Plant because the overuse of antibiotics has rendered formerly effective prescription medications
useless. Properly formulated Tea Tree Oil has been used in many cases as an anti-bacterial agent, when even the strongest antibiotics have failed.

Zinc Gluconate: Zinc is the natural enemy of bacteria. It wasn't until very recently that laboratories decided to use this very pleasant version of Zinc (as opposed to nasty tasting Zinc Acetate or the
astringent Zinc Chloride - which burns the inside of your mouth). You may recognize this ingredient as the one that is used in many common cold medications - That's because it works!

Fluoride: Sodium Fluoride should be added for 2 very good reasons: 1) It stops the decay process and 2) It helps to desensitize teeth with root exposure (a common symptom of gum disease.

So what's wrong with commercial products? PLENTY!! First of all, if they truly worked, why is there an epidemic of gum disease in the U.S.? - (where everyone constantly brushes, rinses, and gargles with the following ingredients!)

Here's just a few of the chemicals that are thrown into the mix of the most commonly used products:

Alcohol: To really destroy these types of bacteria you need at least a 70% solution of alcohol. The problem is that you can't use such a high concentration in your mouth. Alcohol makes your mouth extremely dry; it's classified chemically as a "desiccant" - or drying agent. The most popular mouthwash uses a concentration of 27% alcohol - enough to create a huge increase in these anaerobic bacteria. That's because when your mouth gets dry, you have less Saliva. Among minerals and enzymes, your saliva contains a high concentration of Oxygen to keep the anaerobes in check. Once your mouth gets even slightly drier, the anaerobic bacteria go wild and there is an instant increase in sulfur production. The same thing happens when you drink alcohol (however, there is still more alcohol in the leading mouthwash than a 6 pack of beer!)

Soap: Yes, there is soap in toothpaste. It is known chemically as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate (check out your shampoo bottle and you'll see it listed near the top of ingredients.) Soap as everyone knows is very drying. Consequently, it will end up producing more of these sulfur
compounds. Why is Soap placed in toothpaste (it's even in the so-called "natural" Tom's of Maine - It's put there to make it foam up. The big
companies think you are stupid and that you won't brush your teeth unless you see FOAM! It has no other use.

Saccharin: Nearly every toothpaste on the market contains Saccharin to sweeten the product. Saccharin has been shown time and again to cause cancer in lab animals. Did you know that Crest toothpaste for Kids contains Saccharin! Would you give Saccharin to your children? Of
course not! Then why do you let them brush their teeth with it (and possible swallow some, too!)

From my clinical tests at the California Breath Clinics (office visits available in Los Angeles and San Francisco), we've found that we can 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

How to Stop Bleeding Gums?

BBleeding gums can be one sign of periodontal disease, gingivitis, or other serious problems. Other symptoms like bad breath, toothache, and receding gums indicate poor dental health.

Gum disease affects the tissues that surround and support the teeth. Bacteria affect the gum, which can turn into tartar and plaque buildup, irritate your gums and lead to bleeding and receding gums. Top quality oral hygiene cures bleeding gums.

Bleeding gums are also caused by the canker sores which are caused by the herpes simplex virus. Aging is also a factor for bleeding gums. If you do not treat gums properly it may eventually lead to loss of teeth. Early diagnoses of the bleeding gums are better and you can treat them so that there are no further complications. Tooth loss is caused gum weakening. Many people are affected by gingivitis that is characterized by bleeding gums and swollen gums. This condition may also be painful for some people.

Folic acid tablets are also available in the medical stores for this purpose. Gums that bleed are not only unhealthy but are also unattractive. People who take care of their external looks should also concentrate on the bleeding gums. Consult a dentist if you have problems like toothache, canker sores, receding gums or excessive plaque.

Brushing teeth is such a routine that very few people think about it. The teeth are not getting brushed properly. All-natural, fluoride-free toothpaste should be used for brushing. While brushing your teeth along the gum line, angle your toothbrush at a 45-degree so it is up against your teeth and gums. Then jiggle the toothbrush back and forth in small, round strokes. The correct motion is more like massaging along the gums line than brushing.

Adding 2 -3 drops of tea-tree oil to the toothpaste for brushing provides good teeth. You will have a longer fresh-breath feeling afterwards. Flossing daily is the best way to stop plaque from forming between teeth. When flossing is done on a daily basis as advised, bleeding will become less & less and soon gone. Flossing & scaling can reach and clean under the gum line effectively.

Visit http://www.natural-treatment-guide.com/cavities/bleeding-gums-treatment.htmlor http://www.natural-treatment-guide.com/cavities/swollen-gums-treatment.htmlfor more information on curing bleeding gums problems.

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