Halitosis is the medical term for bad breath. Most people develop bad breath from time to time, but persistent and consistent bad breath is considered halitosis. The foods you eat and beverages you drink can affect your breath. It can be an embarrassing problem to have, but most cases are not serious and can easily be treated at home.
Dental Health
Many cases of halitosis are caused by poor oral hygiene or a dental condition. When you do not brush and floss daily, bits of food that are left in your mouth will begin growing bacteria, and these bacteria can cause breath odor, according to the American Dental Association. People who wear dentures can get halitosis if their dentures are not cleaned properly. Halitosis can also be a sign of gum disease and can be caused by a tooth abscess, cavities or an impacted tooth.
Medical Considerations
Although many cases of halitosis are caused by poor dental hygiene, certain underlying medical conditions can also cause bad breath. For example, sinusitis, throat infections, lung or respiratory infections and certain medications can cause bad breath, according to the National Institutes of Health. People who smoke are also more likely to have halitosis, and it can also be a sign of alcoholism.
Food Causes
Food itself can cause halitosis, but not in the way you might think. Although food particles in the mouth can lead to bad breath, consuming odoriferous foods such as garlic and onions can cause bad breath after they are ingested, according to the ADA. Once you swallow a food, it is partially absorbed in the bloodstream and then transferred to the lungs. Then, when you breath, that smell is expelled with your breath. Brushing your teeth or using gum or mints will only provide temporary relief. The smell will remain until the food is completely eliminated from the body.
Prevention
If you find yourself afflicted with bad breath, try adopting good oral hygiene practices to see if you can prevent it. Brush your teeth twice a day, and don't forget to brush your tongue each time, according to the ADA. You should also floss or use interdental cleaners to clean between the teeth at least once a day. Denture wearers should remove their dentures every night and give them a thorough cleaning before inserting them again the next morning.
Treatment
Medical or dental treatment of halitosis involves identifying and treating the condition causing the bad breath. Your dentist will examine your mouth to see if you have gum disease or any tooth deformities that may cause bad breath, according to the ADA. A thorough, professional cleaning or a visit with a periodontist to treat the gum disease may improve the condition. If no cause is found, your doctor may refer you to your physician to see if a cause can be determined. Your doctor may order tests to see if a previously undetected condition is present or simply take a recent health history to see if you have an illness or infection that could be the culprit.
