Gum disease is an infection that destroys the gums, bone and surrounding tissues that hold teeth together.
Bacterial plaque, a sticky colorless film, causes gum disease.
If plaque is not removed by brushing and flossing each day it hardens into calculus.
Plaque harbors bacteria which is linked to bad breath.
Bad breath is a common problem for many people.
At least 40 million Americans suffer from halitosis, bad breath.
The primary cause is poor oral hygiene, food particles stuck in-between your teeth and tongue or untreated gum disease.
In most cases it originates from the gums and tongue, where bacteria and plaque multiply.
There is a simple solution to cure halitosis, visit your dentist for your routine cleaning.
A tongue scraper is often effective in relieving bad breath.
However, only for a short time and it is not an absolute solution.
Plaque which also causes halitosis, it builds up over time and cannot be removed from brushing and flossing your teeth alone.
To avoid offensive breath it is recommended to have your teeth and gums cleaned by your dentist at least every six months.
Flossing Tips: "Flossing every day is proven to add six years to your life.
" - Dr.
Oz Take about 18 inches of floss and wrap it around your middle fingers.
Leave about 2-3 inches of floss in between your fingers.
Hold the floss tightly between your thumbs, and insert it between two teeth.
Curve the floss in a "C" shape against the tooth, and slide it gently up and down.
Do the same to the adjacent tooth and then move over to the next tooth.