Halitosis (bad breath):What You Should Know

Halitosis (bad breath)

Bad breath, medically called halitosis, is a symptom in which a noticeably unpleasant breath odour is present. It can arise as a result from poor dental health habits and may be a sign of other health problems. Bad breath can also be made worse by the types of foods you eat and other unhealthy lifestyle habits. Many people suffer from chronic halitosis (bad breath) all over the world, but many don’t seek help because they’re embarrassed.

Fast facts on bad breath.

Here are some key points about bad breath. More detail and supporting information is in the main article.

• Bad breath is estimated to affect 1 in 4 people globally.

• The most common cause of halitosis is bad oral hygiene.

• If particles of food are left in the mouth, their breakdown by bacteria produces sulfur compounds.

• Keeping the mouth hydrated can reduce mouth odor.

• The best treatment for bad breath is regular brushing, flossing, and hydration.

Causes

Potential causes of bad breath include:

• Dental hygiene: Brushing and flossing ensure the removal of small particles of food that can build up and slowly break down, producing odor. A film of bacteria called plaque builds up if brushing is not regular. This plaque can irritate the gums and cause inflammation between the teeth and gums called periodontitis. Dentures that are not cleaned regularly or properly can also harbor bacteria that cause halitosis.

• Food: The breakdown of food particles stuck in the teeth can cause odors. Some foods such as onions and garlic can also cause bad breath. After they are digested, their breakdown products are carried in the blood to the lungs where they can affect the breath.

• Tobacco: Tobacco products cause their own types of mouth odor. Additionally, they increase the chances of gum disease which can also cause bad breath.

• Crash diets: Fasting and low-carbohydrate eating programs can produce halitosis. This is due to the breakdown of fats producing chemicals called ketones. These ketones have a strong aroma.

• Dry mouth: Saliva naturally cleans the mouth. If the mouth is naturally dry or dry due to a specific disease, such as xerostomia, odors can build up.

• Diseases: Some cancers, liver failure, and other metabolic diseases can cause halitosis, due to the specific mixes of chemicals that they produce. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause bad breath due to the regular reflux of stomach acids.

• Mouth, nose, and throat conditions: Sometimes, small, bacteria-covered stones can form on the tonsils at the back of the throat and produce odor. Also, infections or inflammation in the nose, throat, or sinuses can cause halitosis.

• Drugs: Certain medications can reduce saliva and, therefore, increase odors. Other drugs can produce odors as they breakdown and release chemicals in the breath. Examples include nitrates used to treat angina, some chemotherapy chemicals, and some tranquilizers, such as phenothiazines. Individuals who take vitamin supplements in large doses can also be prone to bad breath.

    

Management of halitosis

Constant tooth brushing is very necessary in managing bad breath. care should also be taken concerning the type of food we eat. For example, people with bad breath should avoid foods such as; onions, garlic, and spicy food. Reduce coffee and alcohol consumption. Eating a breakfast that includes rough foods can help clean the back of the tongue. It is also important to avoid dry mouth, and this can be achieved through regular intake of water.

If breath odor persists despite controlling these factors, it is recommended that an individual visits a doctor for further tests to rule out other conditions.