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What Is Halitosis?

Woman covering her mouth due to bad breath

Did you know that at least 50% of adults suffer from Halitosis once in their lifetime? Here is everything you need to know about the bad breath oral health-related issue, Halitosis:

What Is Halitosis?

Otherwise known as fetor oris, Halitosis is a common chronic bad breath issue that cannot be cured by using mouthwash, regular brushing, or eating mints. According to medical experts, Halitosis is caused by a sulfur-producing bacteria that strives in your throat and on the surface of your tongue. This bacteria starts to break down protein at a very high rate, releasing an odorous volatile sulfur compound, and causing bad breath.

What Are the Causes of Halitosis?

Apart from the bacteria living in your mouth, the other common causes of Halitosis include:

  • Smoking: Smoking cigars or cigarettes starve the mouth of oxygen, which results in drying your mouth and causing bad breath.
  • Dry Mouth: Saliva plays an important role in keeping your mouth clean and reducing odor. A dry mouth can be caused by stress, alcohol, medicines, and other medical conditions, each of which causes bad breath.
  • Foods: Breakdown of food particles stuck in between teeth can also cause odors. These include garlic, onion, ginger, and cauliflower.
  • Poor Oral Care: Without correct flossing and brushing, and routine dental exams, food particles remain in your mouth, making your mouth the breathing ground for bacteria.

How to Prevent Halitosis?

Follow the below-mentioned tips and tricks to prevent Halitosis:

  • Visit your dentist regularly.
  • Floss and brush your teeth twice a day.
  • Brush your tongue, cheeks, and teeth to remove any food particles.
  • Quit smoking and alcohol.
  • Eat healthy foods to keep the saliva flowing.

Looking for a Dentist in Castle Rock, CO?

Meadows Family Dentistry is renowned for providing the best cosmetic and family dentistry in Castle Rock, CO. Click here to schedule an appointment right away.

Posted on Sep 12, 2022
Image Credit:

File ID 50936297 | © Antonio Guillem | Dreamstime.com

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