Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment for Bad Breath

It's the simple things that alert you to the fact that you have terrible breath. When others speak to you, they can tilt their heads or move back a bit. It might have a negative impact on your self-confidence and self-esteem. Although everyone has bad breath from time to time, it may be a daily issue for some people. Some people aren't even aware that they have halitosis, or foul breath. Friends, relatives, and coworkers may be the first to hear about it.

What is the difference between halitosis and bad breath?

Bacteria that reside on the surface of the tongue create halitosis, or foul breath. When these sulfur-creating bacteria break down the proteins quickly in your mouth and throat, they emit noxious-smelling volatile sulfur compounds. The following are signs and symptoms of halitosis:

  • Dry mouth

  • White coating on the tongue, particularly at the back of the tongue

  • Post-nasal drip or mucus

  • Morning bad breath and burning tongue

  • Need to clear one's throat constantly

  • Thick saliva

  • Bitter and sour metallic taste

How You Can Tell If You Have A Bad Breath?

You can feel self-conscious if you believe you have foul breath. You might wish to ask a close friend or someone you trust to see in your mouth. Inquire whether the back of your tongue has a white covering. This is frequently an indication of foul breath caused by germs. If you're too ashamed to ask a friend, you can make a consultation appointment with your dentist. He can examine the air coming from your mouth or nose and give you a more exact evaluation of the cause of the odor, if one exists. Your dentist can also assist you in determining the best treatment for foul breath.

Sniff Test. If you want to know if your breath stinks, a sniff test is a good idea. Take a smell after licking your wrist and waiting for it to dry. Flossing your teeth behind the back of your mouth and then smelling the floss is another option. You may also scrape your tongue and then inhale its scraper's fumes.

What Are the Causes of Bad Breath?

  • Gum disorders and poor oral hygiene like gingivitis, dry mouth and periodontitis are the most common causes of halitosis. Your dentist will assist you in determining the specific source of your problem.

  • Small cases of foul breath might be caused by respiratory illnesses or gastrointestinal disorders. Bad breath can be caused by severe liver or renal illness, as well as uncontrolled diabetes.

  • Brush your teeth at least twice a day using a soft bristle toothbrush and fluoridated toothpaste to get rid of bad breath. Smoking can make the problem worse. Make a conscious effort to refrain from smoking or chewing tobacco. Before going to bed, always rinse your mouth with alcohol-free mouthwash.

  • If you have a dry mouth, drink plenty of water throughout the day. Over-the-counter medicines or dry mouth moisturizing treatments, such as rinses, sprays, or gels, would be beneficial to you. These agents can be obtained through a prescription from your dentist.

  • To help avoid foul breath, or halitosis, see your dentist on a regular basis for tooth cleaning and teeth whitening. Contact us right away if you have any questions regarding this issue or to book a consultation.