Whether you call it bad breath or halitosis, it is an unpleasant condition that is cause for embarrassment. Most bad breath comes from something in the mouth. Food sticks between your teeth, around the gums, and on your tongue. If not removed with daily brushing and flossing, this food can rot and help bacteria grow in your mouth. As the cycle continues unchecked, gingivitis develops and leads to bad breath.
The things you eat can also affect your breath. Common examples of foods and beverages that may cause bad breath include onions, garlic, cheese, pastrami, certain spices, orange juice, soda, and tobacco products. Once food is digested and its oils are absorbed into the bloodstream, they are carried into the lungs, and its odor is given off in your breath. Mouthwashes mask odor for just a short time.
Bad breath can also be caused by dry mouth (xerostomia), which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause odor. Dry mouth may be caused by various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuously breathing through the mouth. If you suffer from dry mouth, Dr. Bohay may prescribe artificial saliva, or suggest using sugarless candy, and increasing your fluid intake.
Bad breath may also be a sign of a health problem. Conditions such as chronic lung and sinus infections, liver or kidney disease, and diabetes may cause bad breath.
Maintaining good oral health is essential to reducing bad breath. This includes scheduling regular dental visits for a professional cleaning and checkup, brushing your teeth and tongue twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque, and flossing once a day to clean between teeth. If you still have bad breath, see your family doctor.
Halitosis (Bad Breath)
