Halitosis or bad breath is really a very serious oral health condition that you shouldn’t overlook. Bad breath could be caused due to existing health conditions, improper dental hygiene or simply the food. No matter what, there are certain measures to treat and prevent halitosis at home or with the help of a professional.
Bad Breath Causes
Dry Mouth – Saliva is important to keep your mouth cleaned. Dry mouth can also lead to halitosis due to a lack of saliva.
Improper oral hygiene – Don’t you clean your gums, teeth, and tongue properly every day? The rotting food leftovers and buildup of bacteria can also cause bad breath. Poor oral hygiene also causes gum inflammation (gingivitis) and then leads to bad breath.
What you eat and drink? – Foods and beverages you consume every day can also cause bad breath. Foods that are absorbed in your blood and transmit to the lungs affect the air you breathe in. You can remove the odor using proper mouthwash or brushing. But bad odor still doesn’t go until the food is stored in your body. Here are some of the common culprits –
- Garlic
- Onion
- Cheese
- Alcohol
- Pastrami
- Soda or orange juice
- Some spices
Similarly, dieters who don’t eat properly may also have bad breath.
Health Issues – Bad breath can also be the cause of a huge health problem, including –
- Chronic lung infection
- Sinus infection
- Kidney or liver disease
- Diabetes
- Gastrointestinal issues
Treatment and Prevention
There are different simple things that can be done to avoid bad breath, such as –
- You can look at the foods you eat and the chance that you drink and eat. For example –
- Drink plenty of water
- Eat less meat
- Eat more vegetables and fruits
- Avoid beverages and foods causing bad breath
- Chew sugar-free gums if your mouth gets dry more often
- Use fluoride toothpaste two times a day to brush your gums, teeth, and tongue. Be sure to reach the tooth surfaces and gum lines.
- Don’t use tobacco products.
- Use antiseptic mouthwash to rinse it two times a day.
- Remove dentures before sleeping, if you wear them.
- Brush dentures and soak in disinfecting solution all night.
- Clean retainers and braces as directed.
When to see the dentist?
It is recommended to see the dentist two times a year for professional cleanings and regular checkups. Your dentist can diagnose and cure bad breath due to gum disease. Be sure to ask the dentist related to the best solutions to cure halitosis. For example, artificial saliva might be recommended for dry mouth. Ask your dentist if you are going to buy certain products to treat bad breath like halitosis kits.
A dentist may refer to the concerned physician to cure the common health problem that can be the cause of foul odor in your mouth.