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Breath freshener

Problems with so called "bad breath" have plagued humans as far as time can recall. Bad breath, medically referred to as breath malodor, is primarily caused by volatile sulfur compounds (VSC), which are mainly hydrogen sulfide and methyl methyl mercaptan. Foods and natural decay generate odors within the oral cavity. These are apt to remain on the breath long after meals. Food particles and other matter which linger in the area of the mucous membranes and between the teeth and gums contribute significantly to this odor problem. Particular offenders in the food category are liquors, garlic, fish and leeks. Smoking also generates smells. Foul breath sometimes arouses unpleasant responses in those near the generating source. Malodor is also an indication of oral and other body organ illnesses. Another primary cause of bad odor is the emanaton of various sulfur compounds from the body. Sulfur is generated in the digestive tract as a result of the breakdown of various high-sulfur foods, and is released from the body through the mouth and pores of the individual. Certain food substances, such as garlic and onions, are notorious for generating the sulfur compounds which cause the foul odor. It has been shown that mouth malodor is associated with sulfur compounds which are generated by decomposition of three amino acids in the saliva, namely, methionine, cystine and cysteine, to produce hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan and dimethyl sulfide and sometimes dimethyl disulfide. The desirability of fresh breath is well understood throughout modem society. Indeed, breath freshening products have been in existence for quite some time. Many different products and methods have been utilized to cover up these offensive odors at various points in time. Mouth and breath fresheners are in liquid form and are housed in a small vial made of plastic or comparable material. A shot of the liquid freshener is usually dispensed by an aerosol pump means or comparable dispensing apparatus. Chewing gums that provide the consumer with a variety of flavors and characteristics are available. Typically chewing gum includes flavors and sweeteners. Flavors are designed to be released as the consumer chews the gum. There are a variety of types of chewing gums.

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