Imagine you walk up to a friend or colleague, and their expressions change when talking to you. You ask them the reason for their discomfort, but they shrug it off. In such situations, the reason is usually bad breath. However, people avoid mentioning it so as not to offend others. What’s the reason for bad breath, and how can you save yourself from the embarrassment? At Sekhon Dental – Dentist Agoura Hills, we have helped many patients overcome bad breath issue.
What is Bad Breath?
Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, refers to bad-smelling breath. Studies show that one in four people have bad breath, and research also mentions that around 50% of the adult population has halitosis.
While we usually don’t have a pleasant oral smell when we wake up, sometimes, the condition might require intervention from a trusted and experienced dentist, Dr. Sekhon at Sekhon Dental – Dentist Agoura Hills.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Internal Factors
Systemic diseases like diabetes, GI disturbance, respiratory infection, kidney or liver failure, and lung infection are among widely reported internal factors regarding bad breath.
Internal factors leading to halitosis may also include the over function of the odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) like hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan, which cause bad breath.
External Factors
People using alcohol and tobacco may experience bad breath. Furthermore, consuming foods like garlic, onions, tuna, etc., may also give you temporary bad breath.
Other Causes of Bad Breath
Some other common causes of bad breath include:
- Poor oral hygiene (not brushing, flossing, or using mouth wash regularly)
- Mouth, throat, and nose issues, such as throat infections or sinus
- Dry mouth
- Smoking (including vaping, chewing tobacco)
- Dentures
- Periodontal diseases
- Long-term dieting
- Acid or bile reflux
Treatment and Care for Bad Breath
The treatment of bad breath entirely depends on the underlying cause. For example, halitosis rising from a systemic health condition requires treatment of that particular problem. Similarly, you might require an appointment at Sekhon Dental in Agoura Hills to treat periodontal issues.
Other treatment options depending on the causes of bad breath are:
| Cause of Halitosis | Possible Treatment/ Solution |
| Poor oral hygiene | Preventive dental care (Brush and floss twice a day with regular use of mouthwash, tongue cleaning, and professional teeth cleaning) |
| Foods | Avoid eating foods like onions and garlic to prevent bad breath |
| Oral sulfur-producing bacteria | Antibiotic treatment |
| Chronic sinusitis | Use a saline nasal spray |
| Dry mouth | Drink more water or opt for a saliva substitute |
Can I Prevent Halitosis?
Yes, you can prevent halitosis from poor oral hygiene or an issue like dry mouth or periodontal disease. Consider the following to avoid bad breath:
- Brush your teeth with an adequate tooth brush at least twice daily.
- Brush your tongue to the back thoroughly to avoid odor-producing bacteria.
- Clean your dentures regularly to prevent plaque build-up.
- Avoid tobacco, alcohol, and foods that might make your mouth smell.
- Stay away from spicy food and caffeine as they dry up your mouth.
- Regularly visit your dentist for your preventive care appointment to avoid dental issues.
- Treat systemic health problems adequately to prevent bad breath.
Book your appointment at Sekhon Dental – Dentist Agoura Hills to diagnose the cause of halitosis and treat your bad breath.