Bad breath, also known as halitosis is a condition that affects more than 30% of people around the world. According to medical experts, bad breath originates from different parts of the body like throat and the tonsils. Although bad breath is something that everyone experiences at one point to another especially due to poor dental hygiene, the smell that does not go away even after flossing or brushing should be a cause for concern.
What Causes Foul Smell?
Besides the areas suggested above, bad breath could also be coming from some parts of the tongue. These areas often have some Sulphur producing bacteria. These bacteria help in the digestion only that they can do this without using oxygen. During digestion, these anaerobic bacterial excrete volatile Sulphur compounds, which if unchecked leads to bad breath. Other secondary causes of bad breath include dry mouth, food, poor dental hygiene, and dental illnesses.
Symptoms of Halitosis
Constant foul breath tells us that something is not well. However, most symptoms of halitosis depend on the underlying cause of the problem. Some of these symptoms include a white coating on your mouth, a bitter taste, thick saliva, and a postnasal drip. A sore throat, persistent coughing, and swollen lymph nodes could also be serious contributing factors.
The effects of halitosis are diverse. If you suffer from chronic bad breath, you might have problems getting along with your peers due to self-esteem issues. Unfortunately, you might suffer from this condition without knowing considering that not everyone can be comfortable telling you this. The best what to determine whether you have bad breath or not is to lick your palm, and take a whiff on that part.
Dealing With Halitosis
If you are struggling with persistent bad breath, it is essential to visit a dentist or a doctor. The doctor will then try to look at all possible causes including the possibility of another medical condition. Like the symptoms, the treatment advanced depends on the underlying cause. The doctor can then recommend mouthwashes and solutions that will interrupt the bacteria’s production of bad breath.
Besides treating, individuals without halitosis can embrace simple home remedies like often brushing, eating fibrous foods, taking lots of water, avoiding smoking, avoiding dairy products, and occasionally brushing your teeth with baking soda among other solutions. Always remember that preventing halitosis is better than treating it.