Determining if You Have Bad Breath (Halitosis) and What to Do About It.

We all have bad breath from time to time but if you suffer from bad breath on a regular basis it can be really embarrassing.

Bad breath (halitosis) is a condition that is estimated to affect 50 to 65% of the population.

Would you believe that up to 90% of cases are thought to originate from sources in the mouth? These sources include poor oral hygiene, periodontal disease, a coating on the tongue, impacted food, faulty dental restorations and throat infections.

Ten percent of halitosis is the result of systemic disorders, such as peptic ulcer (when associated with infection). Lung infections, liver or kidney disease, diabetes mellitus, and cancer can also cause bad breath. So, if you have chronic halitosis you are wise to seek medical advice ASAP to rule out anything more serious.

In most cases, bad breath in the mouth can be traced to sulphur gases produced by bacteria in the mouth. You see, factors that support the growth of this kind of bacteria will predispose a person to halitosis.

Accumulation of food within pockets around the teeth or among the bumps at the back of the tongue are good examples. You may also have food built up in small pockets in your tonsils. Mucus in your throat or sinuses can also serve as a breeding ground for bacteria.

Your bad breath can be more than just embarrassing. Research has shown that the sulphur gases most responsible for halitosis can damage the tissues in your mouth and may lead to periodontitis which is an inflammation of the gums and ligaments supporting the teeth.

So you suffer from bad breath but what can you do about it?

First of all improved oral hygiene and the treatment of underlying infections may be helpful. Mouthwashes often help to control oral bacteria. Persistent halitosis however may require professional dental care.

You may also find lifestyle changes to be helpful. Home oral hygiene is probably the most effective way to reduce accumulations of debris and bacteria that can lead to halitosis.

Regular tooth brushing and flossing along with the use of mechanical irrigators to remove accumulations of food after eating may also be helpful. Brushing your tongue or using a commercial tongue scraper has also been proven effective in some cases. It is important however that your tongue scraper is used over the bumpiest region of your tongue. When used correctly your tongue scraper may be able to remove both the odor-causing agents as well as reduce the overall bacteria count in your mouth.

Due to the role of gum disease in halitosis it is imperative that regular dental care is practiced in order to prevent or treat gum disease. Treatment for a person with periodontal pockets may include scaling of the teeth to remove tartar.

Furthermore it is important to note that a reduced saliva flow increases the concentration of bacteria in the mouth and can enhance bad breath. Dry mouth is commonly the result of medications like antihistamines, some antidepressants and diuretics. That said, chronic mouth breathing, radiation therapy, dehydration, and various diseases may also be a contributing factor.

If you suffer from a dry mouth you may want to consider increasing your amount of saliva production by chewing sugarless gum or increasing your water intake. Also limit your alcohol intake (this includes the use of some commercial mouthwashes which contain alcohol) because alcohol tends to quickly dry out your mouth.