Bad breath is breath which has unpleasant odor. It is also called as halitosis. It can be temporary or long lasting. There are millions of bacteria in the mouth mainly in the back of the tongue. This bacterial growth requires mouth?s warm and moist conditions.

Bad breaths are in most cases caused by problems in the mouth.

Causes

 

• Poor dental hygiene: Improper brushing, flossing and bad breath is caused due to food decay in the mouth.
• Infections in mouth like gum disease.
• Respiratory tract infections.
• Avoid coffee, tea and alcohol.
• Dry mouth (Xerostamia) which is caused due to medications, salivary gland problems or mouth breathing.
• Systemic diseases like diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, lung disease, sinus disease, reflux disease .
• Psychiatric illness: In this the patient believes there is a bad breath. It is also called as pseudo halitosis.

 

 Prevention

 

• Maintaining oral hygiene.
• Brushing the teeth, tongue and gums after meals.
• Flossing daily.
• Clean your mouth after eating dairy products, fish and meat.
• Rinsing with mouthwash.
• Having dental check up regularly every 6 months
• Drink plenty of water every day.
  

 

You can use products to keep breath fresh and prevent from plaque formation like

 

• Sugar free gum.
• Sugarless breath mints.
• Raw carrots.
• Celery.

 

 Treatment

 

• Mouth washes can be given.
• Treat the cause.

 

 When to call the doctor

If the bad breath is associated with

 

• Loose teeth.
• Painful, swelling gums.
• Bleeding ums.
• Sore throat.
• Discolored nasal discharge.
• Cough with mucus.