WHAT IS BAD BREATH? 

Bad or changed breath also known as halitosis is a foul smell from the mouth. It’s a common condition and everyone has it from time to time. Some instances, such as after waking up, when you are hungry or are dieting, after eating foods with a strong odour like onions, garlic and meats.  

Additionally, bad breath can be caused due to any of the following conditions:  

• Poor Dental Hygiene

• Dry mouth

• Decrease in saliva In the morning

• When you are hungry and dehydrated

• Certain foods 

• Certain medicines

• Alcohol 

• Smoking Tobacco

• Oral Throat or mouth infections and cancers

• Dental problems (Gum Diseases)

• Tonsils 

• Sinus or Nasal Infection 

• Diabetes

• Digestive disorders

• HIV infection

• Liver disease

• Lung problems, such as an infection or cancer

DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT 

Diagnosis : Is usually made by smelling both the breath from your mouth and your nose. Or by scraping the back of the tongue  and rate its odour. Besides, there are sophisticated detectors that can identify the chemicals responsible for bad breath.  

Treatment: To help improve bad breath:

• gargle with salt and water

• brush your teeth at least twice a day

• floss your teeth regularly

• consume a low-fat diet 

• go for a diet rich in fibres

• do not smoke or use other tobacco products

• avoid foods and drinks that cause bad breath

• stay away dieting or missing meals (decrease saliva)

• chew sugar-free gum, sugar-free mints, or drink water, especially if your mouth is dry 

• remove dentures, removable bridges, partial plates, or orthodontic appliances and clean them as directed by your dentist

• use a mouthwash 

• avail regular dental checkups.

• See an ENT specialist to resolve frequent problems with mouth odour

IMPORTANT INFORMATION 

Periodic oral check-ups by a Dentist can help in preventing bad breath.