CONDITIONS
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
What is halitosis?
Halitosis is the medical name for bad breath. Halitosis is defined as an unpleasant or offensive odour originating from the breath. It is common to experience bad breath upon waking up, but this typically disappears after brushing one’s teeth. However, if bad breath persists, it may indicate an underlying health issue. This unpleasant odour can come from the mouth or teeth or be a symptom of an underlying health problem.
Halitosis can be a sign of various conditions. It is like a warning message from the body. Identifying what is causing the bad breath is the first step in treating the problem.
What causes bad breath?
Bad breath may be caused by
- Poor oral hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to food accumulation. Food particles accumulate on the teeth, tongue, and gums; they can decompose, giving an unpleasant odour and taste in the mouth.
- Improper cleaning of dentures: Improperly cleaned dentures may harbor bacteria, fungi, and food remnants, contributing to bad breath.
- Bacterial buildup on the tongue: Specific bacteria on the posterior part of the tongue can interact with amino acids present in foods. This interaction can generate malodourous sulfur compounds, contributing to bad breath.
- Periodontal disease: The gum disease often manifests with foul breath and an unpleasant taste, necessitating prompt oral care.
- Dry mouth (Xerostomia): When saliva production significantly decreases, the mouth loses its ability to self-cleanse, resulting in the accumulation of food remnants, debris, and particles, ultimately causing unpleasant breath odour. Certain medications, salivary gland dysfunction, or habitual mouth breathing can cause dry mouth.
- Tobacco usage: Products like cigarettes and cigars not only stain teeth and pose health risks but also exacerbate bad breath and increase susceptibility to oral issues like periodontal disease and oral cancer.
- Underlying health conditions: Halitosis might suggest respiratory infections, sinus issues, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, or liver and kidney ailments, warranting medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment.
What are the symptoms of halitosis?
The main symptom of halitosis is consistent bad breath, which might be strong enough for others to notice.
How is halitosis diagnosed?
If an individual is experiencing chronic bad breath that persists for more than a few hours, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with the dentist. During the visit, the dentist will identify cause of bad breath, such as infections and gum disease. Furthermore, they will offer recommendations on oral hygiene and denture care. In case the dentist suspects that an underlying medical condition is responsible for bad breath, they may advise to seek advice from the specialist doctor (general physician).
How is halitosis treated?
Treatment depends on the cause of the condition. For example, suppose bad breath is due to poor oral hygiene. In that case, the dentist may recommend cleaning the teeth to remove plaque, and they will advise a mouth rinse or toothpaste that contains an antibacterial agent to kill the bacteria that cause plaque buildup.
If gum disease is present, dentists may suggest seeing a gum specialist, commonly referred to as a periodontist. Gum disease can lead to the separation of gums from teeth, resulting in deep pockets that become filled with bacteria causing unpleasant odours. In some cases, only professional cleaning can effectively eliminate these bacteria. Dentists may also advise replacing faulty fillings, which can serve as a breeding ground for bacteria.
If bad breath is a result of a medical issue unrelated to the mouth, the doctor might suggest alternative treatments based on the underlying cause.
How can halitosis be prevented?
Maintaining good oral hygiene ensures breath stays fresh and clean. Here are a few basic tips:
- Brush and floss teeth at least twice a day.
- Brush tongue, cheeks, and the roof of the mouth. Most bad breath bacteria live on the tongue, so brushing or scraping the tongue can make a big difference in breath.
- If dentures are worn, take them out at night and clean them completely before putting them back in the mouth.
- Drink a lot of water to help prevent dry mouth.
- Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco products because they can dry out the mouth.
- Avoid eating excessive sugary foods and drinks, as they can cause bacterial growth in the mouth leading to tooth decay.
- Maintain saliva production by eating nutritious foods that require chewing, such as carrots and apples.
- Regular dental check-ups play a crucial role in identifying problems such as gum disease, infections, and dry mouth.
What is the best technique for brushing teeth?
Here are some tips and tricks for brushing teeth properly:
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Be sure the size and shape of the toothbrush allow reaching all areas of the mouth.
- Replace the toothbrush at least every three or four months — or more often if it looks worn.
- Hold the toothbrush at a 45-degree angle toward the gums and use short strokes, about the width of a tooth. Make sure to get to the outside, inside, and top of each tooth.
- Avoid pressing down hard on the brush. Aggressive brushing or using a hard-bristled brush could cause receding gums.
In conclusion, halitosis is an unpleasant or offensive odour originating from the breath, which can have various causes ranging from oral hygiene issues to underlying health conditions. Most bad breath originates in the mouth due to bacteria breaking down food particles. Treatment depends on the cause, with improving oral hygiene and consulting a dentist being common solutions. If bad breath persists, a specialist doctor (general physician) should be consulted for further evaluation.
References
- Johns Hopkins Medicine. Halitosis (bad breath) Available from: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/halitosis-bad-breath. Accessed on 3rd May 2024
- Cleveland Clinic. Bad breath (Halitosis). Available from: https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17771-bad-breath-halitosis. Accessed on 3rd May 2024
- Halitosis (bad breath). Available from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/halitosis. Accessed on 3rd May 2024
