Halitosis is a health problem whose symptom is a bad odor emanating from the mouth. Finding the problem that causes bad breath is considered the first step of treatment.

It is known that there are many factors that cause bacteria in the mouth of people. Therefore, bad breath can have many different causes. Although it is seen as something that is not emphasized much, it can sometimes put the person in a difficult situation in the environment and cause them to worry. Halitosis can be caused by certain foods and habits, or it may result from other serious health problems.

Causes for Bad Breath in the Mouth

As mentioned above, there can be many different factors that can cause halitosis. The main reasons are listed below.

• Some foods consumed by patients are generally determinative of their oral health. There are foods that damage teeth or gums, as well as ones that cause bad odor. There is no need to worry about the smell that occurs after eating onions or garlic.
• Not paying attention to oral health is one of the main behaviors that cause halitosis. Brushing the teeth properly and regularly, using dental floss prevents the formation of bacteria in the mouth. Otherwise, the food left between the teeth or gums will produce bacteria and this will cause a bad odor.
• If a person has any periodontal disease, one of the first symptoms may be bad breath. This should be taken seriously and must be evaluated by a specialist.
• If the patients use a dental prosthesis, they should definitely pay attention to their cleaning. If the dentures are not cleaned well, bacteria and fungus formation can be seen in the mouth.
• A dry mouth, known as xerostomia, can also be the cause of the bad odor. Generally, when saliva production decreases, oral hygiene cannot be provided and food residues accumulate. This discomfort may be caused by salivary gland disorder or by some medications used by the patient.
• Halitosis can be a symptom of diseases such as respiratory tract infection, lung infection, postnasal drip, sinusitis, and bronchitis.

Treatments for Bad Breath

If the cause of halitosis is poor oral care, following the advice given by the dentist is sufficient to solve the problem. If there is gum disease, an appointment should be made with the dentist. In such cases, the patient is usually referred to a periodontist. If the cause of bad breath is dental plaque, the dentist usually recommends mouthwash. One of the ways to prevent the bacteria accumulated in the mouth is to brush the tongue together with the teeth.

Correct Way for Brushing Teeth

One of the easiest ways to prevent the production of bacteria that causes bad breath is brushing teeth. But it is also very important to do it correctly.

• Using a toothbrush with gentle bristles. Its size and form should touch to all parts of the mouth.
• Changing the toothbrush every two to three months.
• Using a toothbrush held at a straight angle to the gums and brief strokes. Taking care to reach the outside, inside, and crown of each tooth.
• Not applying excessive pressure to the brush. Aggressive brushing or the use of a brush with stiff bristles may promote gum recession.