Halitosis, or bad breath, is a common condition, which can have a serious impact on a person’s quality of life and self-esteem. As New Smyrna Beach, FL residents, you need to know what causes, prevents, and treats halitosis in order to maintain proper oral hygiene and health. In this detailed article, we look into the details of halitosis, and how to treat this condition as recommended by a family dentist in New Smyrna Beach, FL.
What is Halitosis?
Halitosis is chronic bad breath that lingers despite brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash on a regular basis. It is frequently an indication of underlying oral health problems or other health issues.
Common Symptoms
- Persistent bad breath
- Unpleasant taste in the mouth
- Dry mouth
- Coated tongue
- Causes of Halitosis
- Poor Oral Hygiene
When people do not brush their teeth or floss regularly, food leftovers, plaque, and bacteria build up in their mouths. These bacteria produce sulfur-rich compounds, which cause halitosis (bad breath).
Gum Disease: Gum disease (periodontitis) is a serious gum infection that damages the soft tissue and bone that supports the teeth. It occurs due to the buildup of plaque and tartar when these can house bacteria that release foul-smelling gases.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Saliva aids by neutralizing acids and washing away dead cells to cleanse the mouth. Dry mouth, which occurs when the production of saliva is reduced, makes dead cells, bacteria, and food particles build up in the mouth, leading to bad breath.
Diet: Some foods, like onions and garlic, have pungent-smelling compounds that can linger in the mouth and cause bad breath; the same goes for spicy meals. These compounds are absorbed into the blood and carried to the lungs, where they are exhaled.
Tobacco Products: Tobacco, whether smoked or chewed, can cause bad breath, and discolored teeth, and lessen the sense of taste as well. Tobacco use can further irritate the gums and increase the risk of gum disease.
Medical Conditions: Certain medical conditions can cause halitosis, like respiratory infection, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and gastrointestinal issues. Chronic acid reflux, for example, can send stomach acids into the mouth, resulting in bad breath.
Treatment of Halitosis
- Professional Dental Cleaning: A professional dental cleaning in New Smyrna Beach will rid your teeth and gums of all plaque, tartar, and bacteria, so it can dramatically reduce bad breath as well.
- Managing Underlying Conditions: If halitosis has an underlying medical cause, like gum disease or dry mouth, resolving the condition can improve bad breath. If necessary, your dentist or doctor can prescribe appropriate treatments or refer you to a specialist.
- Antimicrobial Mouthwashes and kinds of toothpaste: Some mouthwashes and toothpaste are designed to treat bad breath. These products often contain antibacterial agents and compounds that neutralize odor-causing bacteria.
- Tongue Cleaning: Cleaning your tongue with a tongue scraper or a toothbrush can reduce bacteria and debris that can contribute to halitosis.
- Prescription Medications: Your dentist or doctor may prescribe medications to treat underlying conditions or suppress bacteria growth in the mouth.
Although halitosis can be a humiliating and upsetting condition, it is treatable with the correct care. For New Smyrna Beach, Florida citizens to retain good dental health and fresh breath, it is essential to comprehend the causes, prevention, and treatment of halitosis. You may successfully fight bad breath and have a healthier, more self-assured grin by maintaining proper oral hygiene, seeing your dentist regularly, drinking enough water, and taking care of any underlying medical issues. See a dentist in New Smyrna Beach to discuss the best course of action for your unique situation if you are dealing with chronic foul breath.
