What is Halitosis?
Halitosis is the medical term for bad breath. It is a common problem that can be embarrassing and affect confidence in social and professional life.
Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath usually comes from the mouth, but sometimes it can be linked to other health issues. Common causes include:
- Poor Oral Hygiene
- Not brushing or flossing properly leaves food particles in the mouth, which bacteria break down, causing odor.
- Gum Disease (Gingivitis or Periodontitis)
- Infection in the gums can produce a strong, unpleasant smell.
- Dry Mouth
- Saliva helps clean the mouth. If you don’t make enough saliva (dry mouth), bacteria grow more easily.
- Common causes: dehydration, certain medicines, mouth breathing.
- Food & Drinks
- Garlic, onions, coffee, and smoking can cause temporary bad breath.
- Tongue Coating
- Bacteria and food debris often collect on the tongue surface, producing odor.
- Dental Problems
- Cavities, broken fillings, or poorly fitting dentures can trap food and bacteria.
- Medical Conditions
- Sinus infections, tonsil stones, diabetes, or stomach issues can sometimes cause halitosis.
Symptoms
- Unpleasant odor noticed by you or others
- Bad taste in the mouth
- Dryness or coated tongue
Treatment Options
- Professional Dental Cleaning – Scaling and polishing remove plaque, tartar, and bacteria.
- Treat Gum Disease – If gum infection is the cause, proper periodontal treatment is needed.
- Fillings or Repair – Fix cavities, broken teeth, or faulty dental work.
- Mouth Rinses & Sprays – Antibacterial mouthwashes can help, but they are not a permanent solution.
- Treat Medical Causes – If the source is sinus, stomach, or other systemic problems, medical consultation is necessary.
Self-Care & Prevention
- Brush twice daily and floss once a day.
- Clean your tongue regularly with a tongue scraper or soft brush.
- Drink plenty of water to prevent dry mouth.
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva.
- Reduce strong-smelling foods (garlic, onion) if socially concerned.
- Quit smoking and tobacco.
- Regular dental check-ups (every 6 months).
♠ Takeaway:
Halitosis (bad breath) is usually caused by poor oral hygiene or gum disease, but it can also signal other health issues. With proper dental care and lifestyle changes, most cases are easily treatable.