Halitosis commonly known as bad breath is a chronic condition that usually don’t go away even after brushing or having a mint. Majorly the source of halitosis is mouth, nose, lungs and stomach. In maximum cases, halitosis originates within the oral cavity & includes bacterial reservoirs such as the upper surface of the tongue & gum where anaerobic bacteria degrades sulfur containing amino acids like cysteine & methionine into the foul smelling volatile sulfur compounds hydrogen & methyl mercaptan.
Chronic sinusitis or a chronic inflammation of lungs & liver can also be the source of bad breath.
Common Causes of Bad Breath
Deposition of food particles in the interproximal area which increases the chances of bacterial deposition is the main cause for halitosis in the majority of people.
Tobacco product induces dryness of mouth which causes unpleasant mouth odor.
Poor dental hygiene.
Certain conditions like xerostomia(dryness of mouth), diabetes, etc. also causes bad breath.
infections in oral cavity which may present as caries, swelling of gums etc. can also cause halitosis or foul breath in patients.
Eating flavorful food, coffee, alcohol, high sugar diet, uncooked onion, etc.
Periodontal diseases, gastroesophageal reflux diseases can also be associated with bad breath.
Asthma related allergies, heart burn & acid reflux might also give a bad breath.
During stress ,there are three types of hormones that work together in our body namely cortisol, adrenaline, noradrenaline & they can alter the production of bacteria ,making breath smell bad.
Improper brushing which results in plaque formations, deposition of minute food particles in between teeth which is basically a breeding ground of anaerobic bacteria, is also a cause of halitosis.
Preventive Measures
Visit dentist for periodic checkup.
Scaling & root planning by dental professional.
Brushing of teeth twice daily properly as guided by your dentist.
Flossing after brushing to remove food particles stuck in the interproximal area.
Avoid sugar, coffee, alcohol, sticky food etc.
Chew sugar free gum for more saliva secretion. It also helps in strengthening of your facial muscles
Eat fresh fibrous vegetables.
Avoid tobacco products.