Are you suffering from bad breath? Do you know that health problems can be caused by bad breath? The medical term for bad breath is halitosis which is a result of poor dental habits. Bad breath can cause innumerable health problems which are made worse by leading an unhealthy lifestyle. Another cause for bad breath can stem from consuming certain foods which do not suit the body. Though there are countless products which are made to fight bad breath, they are only short-lived solutions and are not designed to prevent the cause of the underlying problem.
There are many reasons associated with bad breath such as habits, foods and health conditions. Though it is embarrassing and in some cases making people feel anxious, bad breath or halitosis can be cured by taking care of your diet, seeing your dentist and by following proper dental hygiene. One of the symptoms of bad breath is an unpleasant odor which is emitted through the mouth. The various causes of bad breath can be due to health problems, tobacco, certain foods, and poor dental hygiene. Bad breath can also be caused by oral infections, medications, dry mouth and oral infections.
Causes of Bad Breath
It is best to employ proper dental hygiene techniques and see a physician or a dentist to get to the bottom of the problem. With various causes which result in bad breath, there are different types of bad breath smells such as a fishy smell, an ammonia smell, cheesy smell and fecal odor. In some cases there is a fruity type of smell, an acidic smell or a sweet musty odor.
When the oral care routine is careless, neglected or totally ignored, there is a buildup of plaque at the back of the tongue and the gum line. With stress, dehydration, a serious medical problem and an unhealthy diet, bacteria collect while sleeping which adds to bad breath. It is necessary to take the advice of a dental professional if the problem continues. When the right oral care is administered bad breath can be improved.
Poor Habits and Health Problems Associated with Bad Breath
Poor habits are often detrimental to health and cause bad breath amongst other problems. When the teeth are not brushed and flossed on a daily basis, the food gets stuck between the teeth causing bacteria to form on the tongue, between the teeth and the gums causing bad breath. When the dentures are not cleaned, odor causing bacteria result contributing to bad breath. Besides chewing or smoking tobacco stains the teeth and also aggravates the gums thereby reducing taste which tends to trigger bad breath.
With health problems that can stem from bad breath, one of the warning signs may be gum disease. This may give rise to toxins and can be detrimental to the jawbone and the gums. In some cases, bad breath may be associated with yeast infections of the mouth, dental caries and badly fitting dental appliances. There are other illnesses which may cause bad breath such as bronchitis, postnasal drip, pneumonia, acid reflux, sinus infections including kidney and liver problems.
Ways to Get Rid of Bad Breath
Once you learn the cause of bad breath, there are ways and means to acquire fresher breath such as using a mouthwash especially an anti-bacterial one. Keep drinking water which will hydrate your system. Avoid caffeinated, alcoholic, sugary drinks and acidic drinks. Floss your teeth and gums to get rid of food particles.
You can keep bad breath away by brushing and flossing twice a day. Make sure to clean dentures if any and keep your breath fresh by using anti-bacterial mouthwash. If smokers can quit smoking, they can maintain fresh breath and lead a better lifestyle. Hydrate your body by drinking water and eat healthy foods to keep the saliva flowing.
It is a must that you visit your dentist on a regular basis to investigate any dental problems. Make changes in your lifestyle to accommodate healthy habits. If your dentist has a suspicion that there is an underlying problem which is causing bad breath, then it is imperative that you should see a physician.
