3 out of every 4 people in the world report bad breath. Bad breath is reduced by 1/3 just by brushing your teeth regularly.
We examine the causes of bad breath (halitosis) under the following 6 main headings.
1 - Oral-related causes
Among these, poor oral hygiene comes first. If microorganisms on the teeth and tongue and protein residues in the mouth are not cleaned, they cause bad odor. Microbes settled in dental plaque are generally microbes that can reproduce in an airless environment. Gingivitis, food residues, and the layer on the tongue formed in smokers and those who do not care about oral hygiene can be the source of bad odor. Other causes in the mouth and throat cavity are tonsil and adenoid infections. Tonsil stones can also cause bad odor. Decreased salivary secretion in the mouth may also be a reason that increases halitosis. A 1/5 reduction in bad breath is observed with dental tartar and plaque cleaning.
2 - For reasons related to nose and sinus diseases
The leading cause in this group is sinusitis and rhinitis. Sinusitis becomes chronic when left untreated and becomes the source of inflammatory, foul-smelling discharge towards the nasal passages.
3 - Diseases of the gastrointestinal system such as the esophagus and stomach;
Stomach-derived reflux ( leakage) disease, some inflammatory stomach diseases, pockets formed in the esophagus may cause halitosis due to accumulated food content and inflammation.
4 - Lung-related causes
5 - Other reasons such as hunger, diet, fasting, liver and kidney failures also cause bad breath.
6 - Depending on nutrition (garlic, onion, some fish and cheese). types etc.) bad breath is observed.
Treatment Methods
Before starting treatment, the cause must be understood. ENT specialist, dentist and gastroenterology departments should make their evaluations. If there is tooth decay and gum disease, it should be treated. Oral hygiene should be given importance. The upper part of the tongue should be gently brushed with a toothbrush several days a week. Medication and treatment if there is reflux Occupational treatments are necessary. If there is infection, antibiotics and mouthwashes should be used. Some mouthwashes (such as those containing chlorhexidine gluconate, cetylpyridinium chloride, benzethonium chloride, zinc ions) may also be effective.
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