What is halitosis?

Halitosis is simply chronic bad breath. Halitosis goes beyond morning breath or bad breath caused by foods and can be a symptom of something more serious. If you are suffering from halitosis, your first step should be a visit to your dentist to see if the problem is simply an oral issue that your dentist can resolve or if it is a sign of a larger problem for which you need to see your general practitioner.

Some minor issues that could cause bad breath include cavities, periodontal disease, sinus infections, and dry mouth. More severe issues that could be an underlying cause of halitosis include diabetes, liver disease, or gastric reflux disease.

Oral Issues

Periodontal disease can cause deep gum at pockets where bacteria can hide and cause bad breath and tooth decay. Daily brushing and flossing can help prevent bacteria from collecting.

Dry mouth is another oral issue that can cause halitosis. Our saliva helps clear food particles and bacteria that can become trapped and cause decay and bad breath. There are a number of medications that can also cause dry mouth as well as medical conditions, alcohol and caffeine, and tobacco use.

Nose and Throat Infections

Sinus infections or other nose and throat infections can cause a post nasal drip that leads to bad breath. The overproduction of mucus that your body makes while it is fighting an infection can be a breeding ground for bacteria, causing you to have bad breath with your stuffy nose.

Tobacco Products

Using cigarettes and smokeless tobacco products has a profound effect on the health of your mouth. Patients who use tobacco products are more susceptible to gum disease and halitosis due to dry mouth, not to mention the bad smell left behind by cigarettes or other tobaccos.

Treating Halitosis

A healthy and consistent oral hygiene routine is the best way to prevent halitosis. If you do find that you still have bad breath even after brushing, is it your dentist to see if there is an underlying cause. Your dentist can help you rule out any oral issues and tell you if you need to see your internist.

Your dentist may advise that you receive a deep cleaning to help eradicate any bacteria hiding in your gum pockets that could be causing that breath. After treatment, it is important to maintain a healthy routine and you may benefit from including oral care products that include fluoride or antibacterial agents to kill any lingering germs.

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