Halitosis
Definition
Foul-smelling breath, usually caused by the breakdown of food. Other culprits include poor dental hygiene, dry mouth, disease, infection, tobacco use and severe dieting.
We’ve all been there: You’ve eaten some garlic bread or you have a dry mouth, and you realize that your breath isn’t as fresh as it should be. But there’s a big difference between the occasional bad breath that everyone experiences and the misfortune of having chronic bad breath. Equipping purses and lunchboxes with mouthwash doesn’t easily resolve chronic bad breath, also known as halitosis. So, what is halitosis and how can you and your family deal with it? Here are a few tips.
What Causes Halitosis?
Halitosis has a range of causes, some of which are pretty serious. Here are some of the most common offenders:
Food particles. Foods such as garlic, onion and other strong-smelling meal ingredients can leave particles behind in your mouth and on your tongue, resulting in an unpleasant post-lunch odor. Luckily, it’s easily treated and not a chronic cause of halitosis.
Dry mouth. Medications, smoking and mouth breathing can contribute to having a dry mouth. This lack of saliva means bacteria isn’t being rinsed out of the mouth as well as it should, and this can lead to bad breath. Occasional dry mouth is one thing, but your bad breath could become chronic as a side effect of daily smoking.
Dental problems. Halitosis is often the result of gum disease and tooth decay. Dental issues can encourage bacteria to hide in cavities or pockets around the gums caused by conditions such as gingivitis and periodontal disease. Short-term breath freshening methods might mask the problem, but the smell can remain when the core issues go unchecked.
Medical issues. Some viruses and illnesses, particularly those that affect the sinuses, nasal passages and throat, can result in halitosis. Children with offensive breath might have a cold or sinus infection. The American Dental Association explains that bad breath can also be a sign of some liver and kidney diseases.
How to Cope With Halitosis
Just remember: If it’s a short-term problem, take comfort in employing a short-term solution. If your bad breath is the result of food particles or dry mouth, stimulate saliva production to help wash away bacteria and freshen breath. Offer your kids some sugar-free gum, or rinse with a mouthwash, which helps wash away the germs and bacteria contributing to bad breath.
If your bad breath is the result of a chronic issue such as tooth decay or an illness, you’ll need to see a health care professional because gum and mouthwash will only mask the problem for a little while. If you have a dental problem, make an appointment with your dentist. If you think the problem may be internal, you’ll need to see your family doctor.
