Cause of Bad Breath
A foul odor from the mouth is called bad breath, or halitosis. It can be caused by certain foods, poor dental or oral health habits, some medications, a sinus or throat problem, or even a serious illness. Constant bad breath is a sure sign that it’s time to see your dentist and possibly your doctor to find out what’s causing it.입냄새원인
Odor-producing bacteria thrive in the mouth when brushing and flossing are neglected, promoting bacterial growth between teeth and on the gums and tongue. This produces unpleasant-smelling volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, produce a strong smell when they’re broken down in the mouth. They also leave behind an unpleasant taste that lasts until they’re eliminated from the body. Gum disease (gingivitis) is another common cause of bad breath. This is usually the result of a build-up of plaque and food particles that irritate the gum tissue. If not treated promptly, it can lead to serious dental problems.
Some medications can affect your breath, especially nitrates used to treat angina and some chemotherapy chemicals. Other medications can also reduce saliva production, resulting in dry mouth, which can produce unpleasant-smelling VSCs. If your bad breath is caused by a medication, ask your pharmacist for advice.
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Many mouthwashes claim to eliminate bad breath, but they only mask the odor for a short period of time. The best way to eliminate a bad mouth odor is to brush and floss your teeth regularly, to use a tongue scraper, and to reduce the amount of sugary drinks you consume. If you’re using a mouthwash, look for one that is antiseptic and contains chlorhexidine and fluoride. If your mouth is constantly dry, chewing gum or sucking on a mint can help stimulate the flow of saliva.
If you have bad breath that won’t go away with these changes, talk to your dentist. He or she may suggest that you keep a diary of your diet and the medicines you take, and bring it to your doctor so that the underlying problem can be identified and treated.
A good diet and proper oral care are the main ways to prevent bad breath, but chronic halitosis is sometimes a sign of other health problems. If your halitosis doesn’t respond to these treatments, visit your dentist and your internist so that the underlying health problem can be diagnosed and treated. This may be as simple as getting rid of a sinus infection, or it could be as complex as finding a cure for diabetes or liver disease. Whatever the cause, if you address it quickly, you can avoid bad breath and save your smile!해우소한의원