Halitosis, What is that?

 Halitosis is the dental term for bad breathe.  Whether you call it halitosis or bad breathe one thing is true, it can be a very embarrassing condition that one may have with or without their knowledge.  If the bad breathe is caused by an oral condition, see your dentist.  There are treatments available at your dental office.
What is halitosis?  Halitosis is brought on many different possibilities.  It can be caused by dry mouth due to medications, salivary gland problems or continuous mouth breathing.  When there is a lack of saliva/dry mouth, particles and plaque that cause halitosis are not washed away with saliva.    Sometimes particular foods may cause an offensive odor, for example, garlic or onions.  These types of food are absorbed into the bloodstream and then the offensive odor is again emitted by being expelled by the lungs.   Leftover food particles that remain in the mouth collect bacteria and rot which can also because bad breathe.   Tobacco use also causes bad breathe.  One of the warning signs of gum disease is persistent bad breath or a bad taste.  In addition, halitosis can be caused by medical reasons, such as a local infection, chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbance or liver/kidney ailment.  It is important to have your dentist evaluate and determine if the halitosis is from dental or medical origin.
What can I do to reduce the chances of halitosis? Regular checkups will allow your dentist to examine any problems like gum disease or dry mouth which may be causing halitosis.  Brushing twice a day with flossing and brushing your tongue will remove the food debris and plaque which can cause bad breathe.  If you wear dentures, taking them out nightly with proper cleaning will reduce debris and odor.  Mouthwash is generally used to mask halitosis but only has a short-acting relief.  Antimicrobial mouthwash can be prescribed under certain circumstances under advisement of your dentist.  If the condition is from gum disease, treatment with deep cleaning and reduction of periodontal pockets can remove the bacteria and plaque causing halitosis.  The first step against halitosis is seeking an evaluation from your local dentist can determine whether the halitosis is caused by oral condition or medical condition.
For more information, please call Dr. Fang at 661-253-0588 and visit www.tourneyroaddental.com.