Halitosis, the medical word for bad breath, is a common ailment that can have a variety of causes and, depending on those causes, may require different treatments. Roughly 1 in 4 persons worldwide suffer from it, demonstrating the prevalence across demographics.
Causes of Bad Breath
Although bad dental hygiene is the most frequent offender, as it encourages germs to grow in the mouth and produce offensive odors2, there are several additional possible contributors as well:
- Diet: Odor and microorganisms are exacerbated by food residue, particularly from strong-smelling foods like onions and garlic.
- Cigarette Products: In addition to giving it its distinct odor, smoking raises the possibility of gum disease, which is another factor in halitosis.
- Dry Mouth: Saliva removes bacteria from the mouth, making lousy breath more noticeable.
- Nutritional Practices: Abrupt weight loss and specific foods can cause the body’s chemicals to break down, resulting in bad breath.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes, liver, kidney, and other diseases, as well as dry mouth or GERD, can also cause bad breath.
Symptoms and Self-Assessment
The main symptom is a foul oral odor that is evident to others and persists. It can be difficult for people to assess the quality of their breath, so getting input from a close friend or relative may be necessary.
Stepping Up Your Self-Care Game
Maintaining proper dental health is essential to controlling foul breath. This includes flossing, cleaning the tongue daily, brushing teeth and gums at least twice daily, and scheduling routine dental exams. Additionally, abstain from smoking, rinse your mouth after consuming strong-flavored foods, and consume fewer sugary sweets.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your conscientious self-care regimen isn’t clearing up your breath, it’s time to see a specialist. A dentist is necessary to treat gum disease, which might be indicated by persistent bad breath. Suppose your dentist finds no problems with your mouth. In that case, you should see a physician because halitosis can also be a sign of other health problems.
Treatment: Tailoring to the Cause
The treatment depends on the underlying cause of halitosis. Professional dental cleanings, treatments, and at-home maintenance can be highly beneficial for oral health issues. Your doctor may need to treat the more serious medical conditions if there are systemic causes, which could involve anything from managing a chronic illness like diabetes to changing prescriptions that might be causing dry mouth.
A Comprehensive Approach to Halitosis
A variety of tactics, such as dietary adjustments, medical procedures, and potentially complementary therapies like acupuncture or herbal remedies, may be used in a holistic therapy plan. To guarantee long-term comfort, treating the underlying cause and symptoms is essential.
It’s critical to realize that foul breath is frequently a symptom rather than a problem. To effectively manage this prevalent but complicated disorder, it is essential to understand the significance of systemic health issues, the function of oral cleanliness, and the value of expert dental and medical assistance. Keep in mind that halitosis is a health indication that can be treated, not something to be ashamed of.
If you have questions or are looking for a dental care specialist in Garland, TX, area, Call our Dental Office at (469) 804-5677
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