Bad breath or halitosis is the term used to denote foul smelling breath. It has a significant impact, both personally and socially on those who suffer from it, as well as those on the receiving end.
It is the third most important problem for which patients seek dental treatment other than tooth decay and gum problems.
CAUSES
- Most importantly
- Poor oral hygiene
- Tooth decay
- Gum problems
- Infections like sinus infections, chronic lung infections, liver and kidney diseases, diabetes, etc.
- Dry mouth or xerostomia
- Foods such as garlic, onions, exotic spices, fish, acidic beverages, coffee, etc.
- Tobacco usage
HOW DENTISTRY CAN HELP!!!
- Oral hygiene instructions – People may benefit from a demonstration of how to brush and floss more effectively or how to better clean their dentures.
- Professional dental cleaning – at least at 6 month intervals to remove entrapped food particles and calcified deposits.
- Treatment of tooth decay – by fillings or root canal treatment.
- Treatment of gum diseases – by periodontal therapy which includes deep cleaning of the roots of the teeth, antibiotics and in advanced cases, periodontal surgery.
- Treatment of infections which do not originate in the mouth. This needs to be treated by an appropriate medical professional.
Quitting smoking and chewing tobacco products as well as drinking plenty of water to keep your mouth moist can greatly help. Chewing gum stimulates the production of saliva and has a natural cleaning action.
In present times, bad breath is one of the biggest societal taboos. I am sure that with the help of a dentist you can fight against the same and smile confidently.
Dr. Simy Jose
(General Dentist)
Bahrain Specialist Hospital Clinics, West Riffa
Email: simy.jose@bsh.com.bh