THE bad breath, or halitosis, is a common problem that can be caused by poor oral hygiene, dental diseases, digestive problems as reflux or throat infections. For a effective treatment, it is vital to maintain regular oral habits and seek medical advice if the symptoms persist, ensuring accurate identification of causes of bad breath.
Summary
To have bad breath can impact self-esteem and social interactions. But the good news is that it can be avoided. Here we will explore the main causes, forms of treatment and frequently asked questions about bad breath, to help you maintain the fresh breath and the oral health up to date.
Bad breath: what could it be?
THE bad breath is caused in most cases due to problems inside the mouth. Food stuck between the teeth, bacterial plaque and the tongue coating (accumulation of residue on the tongue) create the perfect environment for odor causing bacteria. Furthermore, gingivitis, caries and the lack of proper brushing worsen the situation.
Other factors include:
- Smoke and alcoholic beverages, which reduce the saliva production
- Gastroesophageal reflux, which brings stomach acid to the mouth
- Dry mouth, also called xerostomia, which makes it difficult to eliminate bacteria
In these cases, in addition to the oral hygiene, it is important to evaluate digestive changes or respiratory with a professional.
What are the main causes of bad breath?
THE main cause of bad breath is the poor oral hygiene. Accumulated food waste promotes bacterial proliferation, releasing sulfur gases which result in unpleasant odor. Brushing should include:
- To brush your teeth and the language frequently
- Flossing
- Regular exchange of toothbrush
Furthermore, gingivitis and periodontal diseases can cause halitosis persistent, requiring monitoring by a dentist.
Other factors that can cause bad breath:
- Food like garlic, onion and coffee
- Dry mouth generally associated with the use of medications or mouth breathing
- Long periods without eating (time without eating)
How to identify if bad breath comes from the stomach or the mouth?
To discover the origin of bad breath, evaluate your oral hygiene routine. If you brush your teeth twice a day, uses dental floss and keeps the clean mouth, but the bad odor persists, the cause may be gastric.
Signs of stomach halitosis:
- Reflux or bitter taste in the mouth
- Constant odor, even with good hygiene
- Symptoms such as heartburn or difficult digestion
THE doctor can request exams and indicate the best treatment for each case.
What can cause bad breath that smells like feces or rot?
This kind of breath odor may be linked to:
- Lung infections or hepatic
- Kidney problems
- Sinusitis with accumulation of secretion nasal
- Bowel obstruction
THE halitosis is classified as systemic when the origin is outside the mouth region. In these cases, the Bad breath may be accompanied by other symptoms, and medical evaluation is essential.
How to treat bad breath with homemade and natural solutions?
Some natural alternatives can help combat bad smell in the mouth:
- Baking soda mouthwash diluted in water
- Mint tea or chew leaves of parsley fresh
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate the saliva production
These methods help with cleaning and elimination of bacteria, but do not replace the regular brushing and the consultation with the dentist.
Bad breath in children: when to worry?
It is common have bad breath upon waking, including in children. However, the bad breath persists during the day it can indicate:
- Lack of proper brushing
- Caries or gingivitis
- Respiratory problems such as sinusitis or inflamed tonsils
Check if the child is brushing your teeth before bed, drinking enough water and using dental floss. If the problem persists, take it to the dentist or pediatrician.
What is the relationship between bad breath and throat problems?
Throat problems, as tonsillitis or presence of tonsillar caseum, can be one of the main causes of bad breath. These whitish formations in the tonsils accumulate bacteria and cause a bad odor characteristic.
They can also cause:
- Sensation of a foreign body in the throat
- Irritation or mild pain when swallowing
THE dentist or an ENT specialist can indicate how to treat it, either by removing the caseum or using specific antiseptics.
👉 Bad breath can have several causes, and many of them are related to oral hygiene. Find out how to avoid it in our complete guide to oral health.
Could bad breath be reflux?
Yes. The gastroesophageal reflux is a of the causes of halitosis. When the esophagus allows the passage of acids from the stomach to the mouth, a change in breath.
Other signs include:
- Heartburn frequent
- Bitter taste or acid in the mouth
- Feeling of heaviness after eating
In such cases, a doctor can indicate diet and medicines to control the digestive problem and, consequently, the breath odor.
How to eliminate bad breath permanently?
To maintain the fresh breath:
- Brush your teeth twice a day
- Flossing before bed
- Clean the tongue with brush or scraper
- Drink water frequently
- Avoid prolonged fasting
Us cases of bad breath persistent, the ideal is to look for a dentist to diagnosis and treatment suitable.
Other measures include:
- Evaluate the use of artificial saliva in cases of dry mouth
- Treat periodontal diseases or digestive
- Control the stress, which can impact the oral health
When to seek medical help for bad breath?
You should seek help when:
- THE bad breath is not resolved with hygiene
- This accompanied by other symptoms, such as stomach pain or stuffy nose
- There is respiratory or digestive problems associates
The professional will be able to assess whether the halitosis can have an oral or systemic origin. This ensures the correct treatment, either with the dentist, ENT or gastroenterologist.
Final considerations on bad breath
THE bad breath is a common problem, but one that has a solution. Understanding its causes and taking care of it oral hygiene are the first steps.
Practical summary:
- THE halitosis may have origin in the mouth, in the stomach or in the respiratory tract
- Taking care of your teeth and gums it is essential
- Lifestyle changes help prevent and control the problem
- When the bad breath persists, search medical help
FAQ – Frequently asked questions about bad breath
What causes persistent bad breath?
Generally, the lack of oral hygiene, bacterial plaque, gingivitis and even reflux they can cause bad breath persistent.
Is it normal to have bad breath when you wake up?
Yes, due to the decreased saliva during sleep. But it should disappear after morning brushing.
Could bad breath be a symptom of something more serious?
Yes. You can indicate digestive problems, respiratory or systemic. If it persists, seek medical attention.
How to eliminate bad breath naturally?
To brush your teeth, to use dental floss, drink water, chew fresh mint or gargle with baking soda.
When to see a dentist?
Whenever the breath odor persist, even with good care. It can indicate the best treatment and investigate hidden causes.
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