BAD BREATH
Bad breath
affects an estimated 25 percent of people. There are a number of possible
causes of halitosis, but the vast majority come down to oral hygiene.
It is also known as halitosis or fetor oris.
Halitosis can cause significant worry, embarrassment, and anxiety but
it is relatively easy to remedy.
Causes
Potential causes of
bad breath include:
·
Tobacco: Tobacco products
cause their own types of mouth odor. Additionally, they increase the chances of
gum disease which can also cause bad breath.
·
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.
·
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.
·
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.
TREATMENT
The best method to reduce halitosis is good
oral hygiene. This ensures that cavities are avoided and reduces the likelihood
of gum disease.
It is recommended that individuals visit the
dentist for a check-up and cleaning twice a year.
The dentist may recommend toothpaste that
includes an antibacterial agent or an antibacterial mouthwash. Alternatively,
if gum disease is present, professional cleaning may be necessary to clear out
the build-up of bacteria in pockets between the gums and teeth.
Other lifestyle changes and home remedies for
bad breath include:
Brush the teeth: Be sure to brush at least twice a day,
preferably after each meal.
Floss: Flossing reduces the build-up of food particles and
plaque from between the teeth. Brushing only cleans around 60
percent of the surface of the tooth.
Clean dentures: Anything that goes into your mouth,
including dentures, a bridge, or a mouth guard, should be cleaned as
recommended on a daily basis. Cleaning prevents the bacteria from building up
and being transferred back into the mouth. Changing toothbrush every 2 to 3
months is also important for similar reasons.
Brush tongue: Bacteria, food, and dead cells commonly
build up on the tongue, especially in smokers or those with a particularly dry
mouth. A tongue scraper can sometimes be useful.
Avoid dry mouth: Drink plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and
tobacco, both of which dehydrate the mouth. Chewing gum or sucking a sweet,
preferably sugar-free, can help stimulate the production of saliva. If the
mouth is chronically dry, a doctor may prescribe medication that stimulates the
flow of saliva.
Diet: Avoid onions, garlic, and spicy food. Sugary foods
are also linked to bad breath. Reduce coffee and alcohol consumption.
Eating a breakfast that includes rough foods can help clean the back of the
tongue.
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.
Comments
Post a Comment