Here’s Everything You Need to Know About the Problem of Bad Breath
Halitosis or simply, bad breath is a condition that affects about 25 percent of people. Though there can be several different reasons for halitosis, the most common one is bad oral hygiene. In this article, we discuss all aspects of this problem, including causes, diagnosis, and treatment.
Most Common Cause of Bad Breath
Halitosis is a common problem — one in every four individuals suffers from this condition. In fact, halitosis is the third-most common reason why people see a dentist.
While halitosis can be caused by several different oral diseases, its most common cause remains bad oral hygiene. The food particles that stay behind in the mouth produce sulfur, which causes bad breath. Thus, dentists advise their patients to regularly brush and floss their teeth as well as stay properly hydrated. Quitting smoking can also help. However, if the problem has persisted for days and weeks, it is best to see a dentist.
Other Potential Causes of Bad Breath
Dry Mouth: The saliva performs the crucial function of cleaning the mouth. Thus, when the mouth becomes dry due to any specific disease, the problem of bad breath often appears as a side-effect of the condition.
Tobacco Consumption: Tobacco products increase one’s chances of developing gum disease, which in turn, leads to bad mouth odor.
Medical Drugs: Many medical drugs reduce saliva production, which in turn, leads to dry mouth and halitosis. On the other hand, many other drugs break down and release chemicals that lead to bad breath. Individuals taking vitamin supplements, tranquilizers, nitrates, and chemotherapy chemicals are very likely to develop a bad mouth odor.
Crash Diets: Rigorous dieting and low-carb diets cause the breakdown of fats. When these fats break down, they release chemicals called ketones, which lead to a strong oral odor.
Diseases: Many diseases, such as cancer, metabolic disorders, Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), liver problems, etc. either cause a regular release of chemicals or stomach acids, which leads to bad breath.
Ketoacidosis: When people suffering from diabetes register a very low insulin level, their body reacts by switching to use fat, instead of sugar, for energy. This fat breakdown causes ketone buildup. Ketones cause really bad breath. More importantly, their excessive concentration can be life-threatening.
Bronchiectasis: Bronchiectasis is a condition that leads to mucus build-up within the body airways. This mucus build-up causes bad breath.
Bowel Obstruction: Bowel Obstruction causes vomiting, which in turn, leads to bad breath.
Symptoms
If you think you suffer from bad breath, it’s best to confirm from a friend or family member who you feel confident around. In case you do not want to ask anyone, do this simple test: lick your wrist and leave it to dry for about five minutes. After five minutes, smell the area. If you suffer from halitosis, your wrist will also smell bad.
Treatment
The best way to treat halitosis is to practice good oral hygiene. Regularly brush and floss your teeth. Visit your dentist at least twice every year and if they recommend you to use an antibacterial gel or mouthwash, listen to them. If the bad breath is being caused by a specific disease, check with your doctor and undergo proper treatment.
For more information regarding bad breath, please give Dr. Apsey of Smile Brightly Dental a call today! We are located in Warren, MI and we can be reached at 586-573-7700!