Bad breath is medically known as halitosis. It is a symptom where there is evident unpleasant odor upon exhalation. It can result from poor dental hygiene but also can be caused by the type of foods one eats, unhealthy lifestyle habits or an underlying health condition. In most cases, bad breath can be improved with proper home management.
The food people eat is the most common cause of bad breath. It begins when the food eaten is broken down in the mouth. Food will then be digested in the gastrointestinal tract and will be absorbed into the bloodstream. In turn, it will be transmitted to the lungs and given off in the breath. Food with strong odors can only be temporarily removed with brushing and flossing.
Causes of Bad Breath
There are several factors that can lead to bad breath. These are usually everyday factors that contribute to cases of halitosis, and rarely are they caused by a serious underlying health condition.
- Food
- May lead to increase in bacteria in the mouth that causes the unpleasant odor
- Poor dental hygiene
- Not brushing and flossing daily may lead to food particles remaining in the mouth
- Tobacco products
- Increases risks for gum diseases
- Dry mouth
- Decreased saliva production affects by reduced cleansing in the mouth
- Mouth infection
- Mouth, nose and throat conditions
- Medications
- Other causes
- Cancer
- Metabolic disorders
Symptoms of Bad Breath
People may not always notice when he/ she has bad breath. Sometimes, others may notice and tell ahead of time or other times, people may be giving larger than normal personal space. Apart from the unpleasant odor upon exhalation, the other symptoms include:
- Foul taste in the mouth or changes in taste
- Dry mouth
- Presence of white coating on the tongue
First Aid Management for Bad Breath
Ultimately, treatment for bad breath will depend on the underlying cause. First aid management will consist of several tips:
- Brush and floss the teeth. The tongue needs to be brushed as well to remove bacteria in the tongue.
- Visit a dentist twice a year for regular cleaning. If one wears braces or dentures, more visits may be required.
- Frequently drink water to keep the mouth moist.
- Chew on sugarless gum or suck on sugar-free candy to stimulate saliva flow.
- Chew on mint or parsley.
Prevention of Bad Breath
There are several ways to prevent bad breath. Morning breath may sometimes be inevitable but during the day, there are several ways to avoid halitosis.
- Uphold good oral hygiene. Regularly brush and floss teeth. Keep the tongue clean.
- Avoid dehydration.
- Know the foods that cause bad breath and avoid these.
- Stop smoking and/ or chewing tobacco.
Disclaimer: This article should not serve for medical diagnosis or medical treatment. To learn how to treat every day medical scenarios, enroll in First Aid Courses.