The most common cause of bad breath (halitosis) occurs in the mouth, where poor dental hygiene, tooth decay, and gum disease can create a foul odor. Volatile sulfur compounds or VSCs, derived from bacterial plaque that thrives in the mucus of the mouth, can cause bad breath. Bacteria on the tongue are a frequent source of halitosis. Bad breath may also be caused by eating foods with a strong, distinctive odor or by an underlying health problem. Here are some tips to help beat bad breath.
1. Good oral hygiene-
Halitosis coming from the mouth itself can be treated by practicing good oral hygiene including daily toothbrushing, flossing, and tongue brushing. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial mouth rinses may be used every day. Clean your dentures daily to remove bacteria and food particles.
2. Drink water-
Drink plenty of water to prevent mouth dryness. With a dry mouth, there's not enough saliva to wash away dead cells. Sugarless gum or sugarless hard candy can help stimulate saliva production.
3. Eliminate foods that cause bad breath-
Avoid foods with a strong, distinctive odor such as garlic and onions. Oils from these foods are taken up by the lungs and exhaled. Foods that cause indigestion, allergies, or stomach gas should also be avoided.
4. Dental visits-
Periodic dental visits are recommended to prevent, identify, and treat gum disease or tooth decay.
5. Persistent bad breath-
If bad breath persists, it may be a sign of an underlying condition such as nose or throat infection (such as sinusitis), postnasal drip, acid reflux, indigestion, constipation, intestinal toxins, stomach gases, and other health problems. See your health care practitioner for appropriate treatment.
REFERENCES:
1. Health tips: beating bad breath. Mayo Clinic News Release, May 19, 2006:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/news2006-rst/3416.html
Posted by Elaine Gavalas on November 7, 2006 03:34 PM
