Bad Breath/Halitosis

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a widespread and embarrassing condition. Recent estimates suggest that around 75 million individuals in the United States suffer from this issue, leading to an annual expenditure of 10 billion dollars on oral hygiene products in an attempt to combat it. While it is completely normal to experience temporary bad breath after consuming pungent foods like spices, onions, or garlic, persistent and chronic bad breath is a more serious matter. This constant halitosis can stem from various underlying causes, including inadequate oral hygiene practices, dental diseases, oral infections, smoking or tobacco usage, dry mouth, medication use, specific diets, certain metabolic disorders, or other systemic conditions that impact one’s overall health.

Addressing Unpleasant Mouth Odor Associated with Dental Hygiene and Oral Health Concerns

Given that many instances of ongoing halitosis can be attributed to issues with oral health, it is prudent to visit a dentist as a primary step in taking care of this concern. In the event of a lack of an effective oral hygiene routine, the bacteria responsible for causing these foul odors, as well as dental problems, can multiply throughout the mouth, including the tongue, as well as on dentures that have not been adequately cleaned and maintained. By scheduling regular dental checkups, undergoing comprehensive dental cleanings, and making improvements in brushing, flossing, and maintaining dentures or other dental appliances at home, these specific types of halitosis problems can be effectively resolved. Additional sources of bad breath associated with oral health issues may include persistent dry mouth (known as xerostomia), gum disease, tooth decay, mouth ulcers, oral injuries, or post-operative sites. When bad breath is caused by dental issues, ulcerations, or injuries, the dentist will provide the necessary treatment to address the condition or promote tissue healing.

In cases where bad breath is a result of chronic dry mouth, the dentist may recommend self-care methods or medications to enhance saliva production, along with artificial saliva and other therapeutic measures. It is crucial to bear in mind that dry mouth may occur as a side effect of essential medications used to manage a systemic condition.