All you need to know about Bad Breath
All you need to know about Bad Breath
Are you fed up of being embarrassed by your bad breath? Bad breath is better than no breath at all.
Bad breath (oral malodor or halitosis) has a large social and economic impact. For the majority of patients suffering from bad breath, it causes embarrassment and affects their social communication and life. Moreover, bad breath can be indicative of underlying diseases. It is not caused by indigestion or stomach problems.
In most cases of persistent bad breath, the smell comes from a build-up of germs (bacteria) within the mouth. These are in food debris, in plaque and gum disease, or in a coating on the back of the tongue. Good oral hygiene will often solve the problem. That is, regular teeth brushing, cleaning between the teeth, cleaning the tongue, and mouthwashes. Other causes of persistent bad breath are uncommon.
Bad breath is a medical condition that lowers self-esteem and affects everyday life and personal relationships. People with chronic or recurring bad breath often lose their self-confidence. However, it can be difficult to know if you have bad breath. Family members and colleagues may not tell you.
The bad breath odor is usually caused by a group of anaerobic, sulfur-producing bacteria that breed beneath the surface of the tongue and often in the throat and tonsil area.
Bacterial degradation in the oral cavity is the main cause of bad breath. Due to this process, volatile sulphur compounds (hydrogen sulphide, methyl mercaptan and dimethyl) are formed.. These compunds are mainly produced by Gram-negative anaerobic oral bacteria.
A simple test which you could do yourself to detect bad breath. Lick the inside of your wrist. Wait a few seconds for the saliva to dry. Then smell the licked part of the wrist. If you detect an unpleasant smell, you are likely to have bad breath.
If you do have bad breath, you will need to start a routine for keeping your mouth clean and fresh. Regular check-ups will allow your dentist to watch out for any places where plaque is caught between your teeth. Your dental team will be able to clean all those areas that are difficult to reach. They will also be able to show you the best way to clean your teeth and gums, and show you any areas you may be missing, including your tongue.
So my advice is Stay Healthy and keep that beautiful smile on your face.