Bad breath is something you would want to get rid of as soon
as you can. However, it would be even more important to figure out what causes
bad breath, or halitosis. There can be a lot of things from bad eating habits
to illness that can result in bad breath. In many of the cases, you may be able
to get rid of this condition at home. However, there can be a number of cases
in which you may be required to visit the dentist.
Food choices
While talking about bad breath or halitosis, food choices
are first to be discussed. There are certain foods, such as garlic and onion,
which have strong smell. Coffee and certain other beverages such as tea and
soda can also result in bad breath. Consumption of sugary foods and then not
brushing your teeth can also result in bad breath because sugar tends to stick
to your teeth, leading to the rotting of tooth enamel.
Dieting
While eating inappropriate foods can result in bad breath,
not eating enough foods can also result in the bad breath. It usually happens
when you stop eating carbohydrate-rich foods. As a result, the body starts
burning fats instead of carbs. When that happens, the body produces ketones
which result in foul smelling breath.
Poor oral hygiene
Skipping brushing your teeth once in a blue moon shouldn’t
be of big concern but if you are doing it regularly, there are greater chances
for you to have bad breath consequently. Moreover, you will get the same result
if you brush your teeth but skip flossing your teeth. Brushing your teeth can
help you get rid of the plaque buildup and bacteria on exposed surface of your
teeth but it wouldn’t clean those interdental spaces. You will need to floss
your teeth regularly if you want to get rid of plaque in those spaces.
Smoking
Another reason for the bad breath to occur in your mouth is
the use of tobacco in any form. Many people like to smoke and many people like
to chew tobacco. Both of these practices can lead to serious deterioration of
tissues present in gums. Use of tobacco can also result in staining of your
teeth.
Poor health
Medical conditions, other than the ones related to oral
cavity, can also result in bad breath. Sinus infections and problems related to
respiratory tract can result in bad breath. Moreover, there are certain problems
related to GI tract that can result in bad breath. Diabetes, liver diseases, kidney
disease and bronchitis can also result in bad breath.
While it is good to take care of your oral and overall
health at home, you need to visit your dentist and/or medical physician in
order to keep your oral and overall health in proper check.
