Bad Breath

Bad breath

• Halitosis (bad breath) is a common condition caused by sulphur-producing bacteria that live within the surface of the tongue, tonsils and in the throat
• The treatment for halitosis will depend on the underlying cause

All these factors can cause bad breath:

• Smoking
• Dry mouth
• Dental infections
• Nasal or sinus infections
• Tonsillitis and tonsil stones

Causes of Bad breath

• Major causes
  • The major causes of bad breath are:
    • Dry mouth – caused by medicines, alcohol, stress or a medical condition
    • Foods high in protein, sugar or acid
    • Smoking – which starves the mouth of oxygen
    • Dental factors – such as periodontitis (infection around the teeth) or poor oral hygiene
    • Nasal and sinus infections
    • Tonsillitis and tonsilliths (tonsil stones)

• Less common causes of bad breath include:
  • Acid and bile reflux from the stomach
  • Post nasal discharge – for example, due to chronic sinusitis
  • Hormonal factors – such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy
  • Foods – such as onions, garlic or cauliflower, which induce certain odours – these effects are only short lived

Bad Breath Symptoms

• The features of bad breath can include:Having halitosis can have a major impact on a person
  • A white coating on the tongue
  • Dry mouth and teeth
  • Post nasal drip, or mucous
  • Morning bad breath and a burning tongue
  • Thick saliva and a constant need to clear your throat
  • Constant sour, bitter metallic taste.

• Because of bad breath, other people may back away or turn their heads
• This can cause a loss of confidence and self-esteem

Bad Breath Remedies

• There is no one cure for bad breath
• The treatment will depend on what is causing the problem
• Good oral hygiene, including brushing and flossing, is important
• Chewing gum, mouthwashes and toothpaste are effective in fighting halitosis
• People with chronic sinusitis may find the regular use of a saline nasal spray helpful
• A course of an antibiotic, effective against anaerobic bacteria (such as flagyl -metronidazole, to reduce the overgrowth of sulphur-producing bacteria), may also help
• Speak to your dentist, doctor or chemist to identify the cause of your halitosis and to find the most effective bad breath treatment for you

Things to Remember

• Bad breath is caused by sulphur-producing bacteria in the tongue and throat
• The major causes include a dry mouth caused by certain foods, smoking, poor oral hygiene, sinus infections and tonsillitis
• The treatment of halitosis will depend on the underlying cause