Bad Breath

Bad breath is an embarrassing issue, and it could occur due to several reasons or conditions.

Bad breath

Bad breath can be normal after eating specific foods, such as onion, garlic, and spicy foods, but when it becomes chronic, this might indicate that there is a problem that needs to be resolved.

Causes of bad breath

• The most common cause of bad breath is not practicing good oral hygiene because with poor oral hygiene, the bacteria will attack the mouth and cause terrible smells. This also leads to other oral health issues like cavities and gum disease.
• Dry mouth.
• Oral health issues, like gum inflammation due to the buildup of plaque on the teeth and tongue, could lead to periodontitis.
• Infections in the throat, nose, or lungs.
• Tonsil stones, which occur when food gets stuck in the tonsils and then hardens.
• Smoking.
• Certain conditions, such as diabetes, GERD, kidney or liver disease, and head and neck cancers.

Symptoms of bad breath

• The odor of bad breath differs depending on the cause.

Diagnosis of bad breath

• Rating the breath smell on a scale.
• Dental checkup.

Treatment of bad breath

Treating bad breath depends on the cause.

Bad breath can often be avoided by:

• Practicing good oral hygiene through brushing the teeth and cleaning the tongue.
• Cleaning the oral appliances, if any.
• Rinsing the mouth with alcohol-free mouthwash.
• Visiting the dentist regularly.
• Drinking enough water to avoid dry mouth.
• Limiting the consumption of alcohol and caffeinated beverages.