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Please feel free to e-mail any questions you might have for Dr. Woodruff. We will post the most commonly asked questions with answers here.

Q. What causes bad breath?

A.Bad breath can be caused by such things as certain foods, poor oral hygiene, gum disease, a dry mouth (xerostomia), tobacco products or a medical disorder. When bacteria accumulate because of poor oral hygiene or gum disease, or when saliva is lacking, bad breath can result. Saliva is necessary to wash away food particles and bacteria. Certain medications and disorders can lead to a dry mouth. Sometimes a sinus infection, postnasal drip or other respiratory tract infection can cause bad breath.

Q.What can I do about bad breath?

A.Regular checkups will allow your dentist to detect any problems such as gum disease, a dry mouth or other disorders that may be the cause. Maintaining good oral hygiene, eliminating gum disease and scheduling regular professional cleanings are essential to reducing bad breath.
Regardless of what may be the cause, good oral hygiene is essential. Brush twice a day and clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental cleaners. Brush your tongue, too. If you wear dentures, be sure to remove them at night and clean them thoroughly before replacing them the next morning.


Q.How can I whiten my teeth.

A.Teeth can be whitened by several methods. Nightguard bleaching is the most common, a mouthguard is custom-made. The bleaching gel is dispensed to the patient by a dentist. The patient places the gel into the mouthguard which is worn up to two hours daily or at night for about two weeks.

People with gum recession and certain dental conditions may not be good candidates for this type of bleaching. These products are not recommended for habitual tobacco and alcohol users.