What is Halitosis?

What is Halitosis?

Halitosis is more commonly known as bad breath. During this condition one may experience a very unpleasant odor which is exhaled during breathing; this bad odor may be from an oral source due to bacteria or as a result of some other reason. With the warm and moist condition in your mouth it makes it an ideal environment for these bacteria to grow. Halitosis can have a huge significant impact on ones social and personal lifestyle.

Symptoms of Halitosis

• Dry mouth
• Sour taste in the mouth or a bitter metal taste
• Post Nasal Drip
• A lump in the throat
• Constantly clearing your throat
• White or yellow coated tongue
• People seem to avoid direct contact with you and they step back from you when you are talking to them.
• A smelly odor the minute you open your mouth
• People offering you mint or chewing gum.

What Causes Halitosis?

• Poor diet
• Rotting food
• Poor digestion enzyme deficiency
• Poor mouth hygiene
• Stress/anxiety
• Gum infection
• Smoking or alcohol consumption
• Post nasal drip
• Medications (antidepressants or even antihistamines)
• Foods such as garlic, onions and spicy foods

Halitosis can also be an indicator of more serious internal problems

Halitosis can also be an indicator of a more serious internal problem such as:

• Liver disease
• Bronchial infection
• Diabetes
• Kidney disease

How to lower Risks of developing Halitosis

How to lower Risks of developing Halitosis:

• Replace your toothbrush regularly
• Avoid spicy foods
• Avoid drinking alcohol, eating cheese, meat and sweets
• Chew parsley after meals (natural mouthwash)
• Brush and floss teeth regularly twice a day, using fluoride toothpaste
• Avoid mouth washes with flavorings, alcohol and dyes
• Visit an oral hygienist regularly

Tips to help you prevent Halitosis

• Drink plenty of water
• Treat existing oral diseases
• Maintain healthy oral hygiene
• Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables
• Take natural antibiotics
• Avoid commercial mouth washes
• Drink tea instead of coffee
• Rinse your mouth after every meal