Bad Breath: How to combat Halitosis?

Halitosis or bad breath is a much more frequent problem than you might expect. Having bad breath can become a serious problem with social implications since the self-esteem of those who suffer from the problem could be compromised. In many cases, it is the affection itself that notices that their mouth gives off an unpleasant smell, although, usually, they do not realize that this is happening. The intervention of your dentist or specialist is key to solving the problems of halitosis.

Your dentist can offer you all the professional help necessary to determine where the causes of your bad breath problem are. In addition, he/she will help you eradicate this condition successfully and safely.

Index of contents

• What is halitosis or bad breath?
• Main causes of halitosis
• Dental hygiene deficit
• Periodontal pathology
• Dental abcsess
• Dental caries
• Removable dental prostheses
• Dental appliances
• Xerostomia
• Feeding
• Tips to get rid of bad breath

What is halitosis or bad breath?

Well, as its name suggests, halitosis is a common oral condition, characterized by the unpleasant smell coming from a person’s mouth. Normally, bad breath originates from within the oral cavity, although there are times when the real or primary problem is elsewhere in the body.

Bad breath caused by a cause outside the mouth only accounts for 10% of halitosis cases. We can talk about pathologies of the digestive system, systemic diseases, such as diabetes, or nasal infections, such as rhinitis or sinusitis. Halitosis, however, usually has its origin at the oral level. This means that the problem that is causing mouth odor is inside your oral cavity. 

Main causes:

DENTAL HYGIENE DEFICIT

If you don’t follow good oral hygiene routines, food debris will accumulate in your dental structures, generating that bad mouth odor. The oral bacteria have the particularity that off an unpleasant smell, which can only be removed with the proper tooth cleaning.

PERIODONTAL PATHOLOGY

Periodontal diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis, also cause halitosis. Bacteria from the mouth accumulate under the gum line, causing serious oral infection and a very unpleasant odor.

DENTAL ABCESS

The dental abscess, also known as tooth abscess, is an accumulation of pus as a result of any oral infection. The pus contains microorganisms and bacteria, which do not give off a very good odor. Hence, halitosis is frequent in these cases.

DENTAL CARIES

The decay dental infections are teeth, which generate constant destruction of dental tissues. They are caused by bacteria and if they are not treated quickly, they will move towards more internal areas of the tooth and can lead to the destruction of the tooth.

REMOVABLE DENTAL PROSTHESES

Wearing dentures can also be a risk factor for halitosis. Fungi, bacteria, and other microorganisms are frequently found in these dental prostheses. In order to avoid this, it is important to clean removable dentures well.

DENTAL APPLIANCES

Orthodontics, especially with brackets also favors the appearance of bad breath. This is because brushing your teeth and removing all food debris from your mouth is complicated when you wear a dental appliance. 

XEROSTOMIA

Oral diseases, such as xerostomia or dry mouth syndrome, are also behind halitosis. By not having enough saliva production, oral bacteria find a great place to grow and proliferate.

FEEDING

Bad breath can also be caused by diet. Some foods, such as onion, garlic, red wine, or coffee, generate a very peculiar smell in the mouth. The good news is that in a few hours the halitosis will go away.

Tips to get rid of bad breath

• Improve your oral hygiene: brush your teeth every day, between two and three times a day. Use a refreshing, fluoride-rich toothpaste. Do not forget to optimize your interdental cleaning, with the use of dental floss, interproximal brushes, and the oral irrigator. Finish your dental cleaning with a good mouthwash.
• Visit the dentist: visit the dental clinic periodically to undergo quality oral exams. In the dentist’s office, they will also perform a professional dental cleaning. This way we will end up with the most resistant tartar in your mouth.
• Take care of orthodontics: if you wear orthodontics, follow the care indicated by the orthodontist. Remember that with Invisalign we minimize problems such as halitosis or mouth sores, among others.
• Food: follow a healthy diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, and exercise daily. A sedentary lifestyle does not favor oral health at all.
• Caries prevention: always bet on the prevention of cavities and other oral pathologies.

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