Halitosis
Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is primarily caused by anaerobic bacteria that thrive in the back of the mouth, particularly on the tongue. These bacteria break down proteins and release foul-smelling gases, contributing to the unpleasant odor. Other factors that can lead to halitosis include periodontal disease, decayed teeth, infected tonsils, and dry mouth due to reduced saliva flow. Certain foods, like onions and garlic, as well as tobacco products, can also exacerbate the condition. Symptoms often manifest as foul-smelling breath, a bad taste in the mouth, a white or yellow coating on the tongue, and sometimes bleeding gums.
To manage halitosis, maintaining proper oral hygiene is crucial, which includes brushing teeth and tongue, flossing, and regular dental visits. Staying hydrated and consuming fresh fruits and vegetables can help as well. Over-the-counter mouthwashes and certain prescription treatments can further alleviate the symptoms. While cultural perspectives may vary on the origins of bad breath, it is generally considered treatable and rarely indicates a serious health issue.
Subject Terms
Halitosis
Anatomy or system affected: Gums, lungs, mouth, nose, stomach, teeth, throat
Definition: Bad breath that is often caused by bacterial activity in the mouth
Causes and Symptoms
The primary cause of halitosis stems from anaerobicbacteria that reside in the back of the mouth, particularly on the back of the tongue. These bacteria break down proteins and generate smelly gases, especially hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan. More than twenty-two different bacteria have been identified as producing bad odors in the mouth. Periodontal disease, decayed teeth, and infected tonsils are also sources of bad breath. Dry mouth caused by a decreased flow of saliva can produce halitosis. Foods such as onions, garlic, and hot peppers produce chemical odors that are expelled in the breath. In general, particles of food that remain in the mouth, on the tongue, or between teeth collect bacteria and can cause bad breath. Tobacco products cause halitosis, stain teeth, and irritate gum tissues.
Outside the mouth, chronic infections of the sinuses or lungs can also cause halitosis. Kidney failure has been associated with ammonia-smelling breath, while inadequate diabetic control results in sweet-smelling breath. Halitosis originating from the stomach is very rare since the esophagus is a closed tube that connects the stomach with the mouth.
Symptoms associated with halitosis include foul-smelling breath, a bad taste in the mouth, a white-to-yellow coating on the tongue, and bleeding gums. For many people, the problem of bad breath is manifest only when they begin to talk. To detect bad breath, one should ask a family member, close friend, or dentist how one’s breath smells.
Treatment and Therapy
The basic treatment for halitosis includes brushing the teeth, tongue, and gums properly after each meal; flossing the teeth at least once a day; visiting the dentist regularly; drinking adequate fluids; and eating fresh, fibrous fruits and vegetables. Although it may take time and patience to overcome the gagging reflex, it is important periodically to clean the back of the tongue thoroughly and gently with a toothbrush or a scraper.
Some mouthwashes have been clinically proven to reduce bad breath effectively, as have some toothpastes. If a prescription for halitosis is necessary, doctors can prescribe Chlorhexidine, an antiseptic mouthwash, or Cimetidine, an antihistamine. Prescription mouthwashes targeting dry mouth are also available. Chewing sugar-free gum, mint, cloves, or fennel seeds for a short time can likewise reduce the odor. Dentures should be cleaned properly every day and should not be kept in the mouth overnight. Nose and throat infections resulting in halitosis may need medical treatment.
Perspective and Prospects
Although Islamic and Jewish teachings implicate the stomach as a source of bad breath, it almost never originates there. In almost all cases, halitosis is treatable. Rarely is it an indication of a significant general health problem.
Bibliography
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