Bad breath, or halitosis, is a very common non-threatening medical complaint. Most people experience this phenomenon in the morning just after waking up or after eating particularly pungent food, but for others the condition can prove more persistent. There are a variety of causes of halitosis and a variety of treatments. This guide will help you understand your halitosis and to treat it effectively.
Foods like garlic, onion, and a wide array of spices can release compounds during digestion which are absorbed by the blood. When this blood circulates to the lungs, these compounds are released and expelled again through our mouth and nose. If you suspect your halitosis is diet-related, then the remedy is simple: avoid these troublesome foods. If you stop eating them, then the exhaled compounds will not be replenished.
Poor dental hygiene is another common and obvious cause of bad breath. Infrequent brushing and flossing contribute to a build-up of microorganisms in the mouth. As these organisms consume the sugars from your food, they produce waste gases which can give your breath a noticeable odor. Food stuck between teeth or at the back of the mouth will also give off a smell if they are allowed to sit for a time. Beyond the possible benefit of curing your halitosis, an improved dental health regime will serve to protect your teeth and gums from a variety of dental health problems, including tooth decay and gingivitis. Poor dental hygiene can also result in infection of the tissue of the mouth. This infected tissue is another contributor to halitosis as it emits its own noticeable odor.
Dry mouth is a medical condition which can cause halitosis. Saliva is the mouth's natural lubricant and cleanser and without it, particles of food are allowed to rot between teeth. Chronic dry mouth calls for a visit to the doctor, as it can lead to severe tooth decay if left untreated. Smoking is another common cause of halitosis. Beyond the innumerable threats it poses to human health, the practice of smoking tobacco results in particles of smoke entering the lungs. These participles are later expelled through the mouth and nose and can be smelled on the breath.
To cure your halitosis, a number of steps can be taken. Be sure to brush and floss and least twice a day. Pay special attention to your tongue and the back of your mouth. Use a mouthwash, or drop a small amount of peppermint oil onto your tongue after brushing. Reduce the amount of odorous foods and spices in your diet. If you smoke, quit. See a dentist once every six months for a thorough examination and cleaning. These steps should improve your bad breath. If they do not, consult a doctor. Halitosis can sometimes be a sign of a more serious medical condition.
Mr. Oliver is a marketing agent of Richmond Dental Health. The dental cosmetic surgery office also provides routine dental checkups and maintenance throughout the Richmond Virginia area. For more information on their teeth whitening Richmond Virginia please visit their website.