Bad breath

Bad breath is embarrassing. In addiiton to being a health problem, it is also a social problem. The saving grace is that for the most part with proper dental care bad breath can be avoided.

Why should I be aware of it?

• When we don't clean or brush our teeth properly after meals bacteria starts feeding on the left over food. It releases sulphur compounds that makes the breath smell.
• Maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath, as bacteria that builds up on the back of the tongue or in between the teeth is the main culprit.
• Bad breath can be caused by foods, smoking, dry mouth, medical conditions, gum disease, and sinus conditions.
• Social embarressment associated with bad breath is also one of the reasons that makes dental hygiene such big business.

All about bad breath

Bad breath (halitosis) characterized by consistent unpleasant breath odor, is very embarressing for both those suffering from it and for those who have to be around the person with bad breath.

What causes bad breath?

Food particles and dead cells in the mouth collect bacteria which thrive in enviroments that lack oxygen, such as the back of the tongue and deep gum pockets. These bacteria produce odor-causing volatile sulfur compounds such as hydrogen sulfide.

Many conditions, such as postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, uncontrolled diabetes, respiratory tract infection, liver or kidney disease, and digestive disorders such as acid reflux can cause bad breath. In the majority of people with bad breath, however, the problem is in the mouth and is often caused by improper dental hygiene, periodontal disease or dry mouth.

Triggers for bad breath

The most common triggers of Bad Breath include:

• food, particulary those high in protein
• not eating breakfast
• smoking
• antihistamines and other drugs or medications
• sinus problems
• mouth sores
• tooth infections or gum disease (gingivitis)
• stress
• dehydration
• significant talking
• zinc deficiency
• gastrointestinal disorders (indigestion or stomach problems)
• serious illnesses such as cancer, tuberculosis, or syphillis

What can I do?

• Brushing at least twice a day and flossing daily can help to remove odor-causing bacteria.
• Before trying any natural remedies for bad breath, it's important to visit your dentist to have your teeth examined and cleaned.
• If a cause isn't identified, consult your doctor for further investigation.

References

• What is bad breath?
• 11 home remedies for bad breath
• Bad Breath Home Remedy