Bad breath is medically known as Halitosis, a common dental concern impacting social interaction and self-confidence. Halitosis is the 3rd most common reason people seek dental care after tooth decay and gum disease. This problem can affect people of all ages and is caused mostly by the presence of odour-causing bacteria in the mouth cavity. It may be due to poor oral hygiene, bacterial overgrowth on the tongue and gum disease.
You can take steps to prevent and treat bad breath with the help of your Dentist understanding its cause and effective remedy is a must for maintaining optimal oral health.
Quick Facts on Bad Breaths
- Bad Breath affects 1 in 4 people globally
- The most common type is halitosis which is the worst kind of oral condition.
- Food particle left in the mouth causes degradation and formation of sulphur in the mouth
- Keeping mouth hydrated reduces mouth odour
- The best remedy is to follow dental hygiene brushing, flossing and hydration
Signs and Symptoms
The most common sign of bad breath is a foul odour coming out of your mouth.
- Unpleasant or sour taste or change in taste
- Dry mouth
- A coating on the tongue
- A burning sensation in your mouth
- Sore or bleeding gums
- Loose teeth
- Swollen or red gums
- Bad breath after eating or drinking
- Bad breath worsens in the morning
Why does it Happen?
While poor oral hygiene is the most common cause of Halitosis there are other several conditions that cause bad breath in your mouth.
Bacterial Activity
The mouth is the hub of millions of bacteria, some of which contain sulphur compounds. These compounds are responsible for the foul odour associated with bad breath.
Poor Oral Hygiene
Inadequate brushing and flossing allow bacteria to thrive, leading to plaque build-up, gum diseases and ultimately bad breath.
Dry mouth (Xerostomia)
Saliva plays an integral role in rinsing away food particles and neutralising acids produced by bacteria. Reduced saliva flow, often caused by medications or mouth-breathing, can contribute to bad breath(Halitosis).
Dietary choices
Certain foods and beverages, such as garlic, onions, and coffee, contain compounds that can lead to temporary bad breath.
Gum disease
One of the symptoms of gum disease is bad-smelling breath and an unpleasant taste in the mouth. This condition needs the immediate attention of an oral hygiene specialist.
Improper Cleaning of Denture
If dentures are not cleaned properly it may collect bacteria, fungi, and remaining food particles. which may lead to bad breath.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth
Wisdom teeth are usually hard to clean, the ones that are fully erupted or stuck halfway through the gum can easily trap food. Food debris that stays in the region starts to rot leading to a foul smell.
Medical Conditions
Chronic bad breath can be a symptom of underlying health issues like respiratory infections, diabetes, oral cancer or gastrointestinal disorders.
The Prognosis for Bad Breath
The Dental Specialist will start by getting a full medical and dental history. Also, examine your mouth and teeth for symptoms of underlying medical diseases or dental problems that may be causing your bad breath.
- Identify the cause of your bad breath: The doctor will also assess the level of severity of your bad breath. Smelling the air you breathe out via your nose or mouth, or assessing the odour of a tongue scrape, a length of dental floss, or a dental appliance such as a night guard, can all help with this. Once the source of your foul breath has been discovered, the doctor will prescribe options for treatment. Treatment for unpleasant breath varies according to the underlying cause.
- Remove Plaque and Tartar Buildup: During a regular dental cleaning, the dentist will remove plaque and tartar buildup on your teeth and gums. They can lead to bad breath and other oral issues.
- Prescribe Antibiotics: If you have gum disease, the dental professional may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection, which can help to improve your breath.
- Treat other Underlying Medical Conditions: If your bad breath is caused by an underlying medical condition, such as diabetes or kidney disease, the dental professional may refer you to a doctor for treatment.
- Provide Advice on Oral Hygiene: Our Dental Professional can teach you how to brush and floss your teeth properly. They might also recommend other products, such as tongue scrapers and mouthwashes, that can help to freshen your breath.
“Consult Our Dentists Today”
If your foul breath persists despite your best efforts, you should see a dentist. They can conduct an in-depth checkup to detect any underlying concerns and prescribe the best course of treatment.
Remember that healthy breath and general oral health are built on consistent oral hygiene practices. Consult an experienced dentist at The Dental Lounge for individualised advice and tailored dental treatments to your specific needs. With patience and the appropriate treatment, you may overcome bad breath and enjoy the benefits of a clean, fresh mouth.
