Bad Breath (Halitosis): Meaning, Symptoms and Causes

Halitosis is commonly known as a condition characterised by bad breath. Beyond being an embarrassing concern, it can affect confidence, social interactions, and overall well-being. Halitosis may occur occasionally due to food habits or poor oral hygiene, or persist as a sign of deeper dental or health issues. Identifying its early symptoms, understanding the common causes, and knowing how it develops are essential steps toward effective management and long-term prevention of this often-overlooked condition.

Symptoms of Halitosis

1. Persistent Bad Odour - A continuous unpleasant smell from the mouth which does not go away even after brushing or using mouthwash is common in people with Halitosis.
2. Dry Mouth Sensation - A feeling of dryness in the mouth or thick saliva indicates reduced flow of saliva, which contributes to bad breath.
3. Bad Taste in Mouth - A lingering metallic taste even after eating or cleaning the mouth is also a symptom of underlying Halitosis.
4. Coated Tongue - A white or yellowish coating on the tongue, especially at the back, contains bacteria which are responsible for creating a foul smell.
5. Mouth or Throat Irritation - Irritation or discomfort in the mouth, gums, or throat can accompany Halitosis, especially if the infections or gum disease are present.

Causes of Halitosis

Here are a few bad breath causes you need to know about:

1. Food - The breakdown of food particles around the teeth and mouth after eating can create a foul odour. Certain types of foods, such as spices, garlic, and onions, also cause bad breath.
2. Tobacco - Smoking creates an unpleasant odour in the mouth. People who use tobacco are more likely to get gum disease (another source of bad breath).
3. Dry Mouth - A condition known as Xerostomia causes bad breath. This condition causes the mouth to produce less saliva. This naturally occurs when a person sleeps and leads to what we know as the 'morning breath'.
4. Infections - Having infections in the mouth, decay of teeth, mouth sores, and gum disease cause bad breath.
5. Throat Conditions - Small stones which form in the tonsil, which is also known as tonsillitis, also cause bad breath. These stones are covered in bacteria, which leads to an unpleasant odour.

Diagnosis of Halitosis

Diagnosis of Halitosis involves a combination of specialised tests and clinical assessments. The process begins with a dental examination where a patient's oral hygiene, signs of dental decay and any other periodontal disease are checked.

Additionally, the dentist may review medical history, dietary habits, smoking status and medication use. These are important factors which also contribute to bad breath.

Treatment of Halitosis

In bad breath treatment, a dentist scrapes the back of the tongue and tests it. There is a vast range of detectors which then rate the scrapes (mouth odour) on a six-point intensity scale. Some of them are:

1. Hali Meter: These scales detect low levels of volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs).
2. Beta-Galactosidase Test: The levels of this enzyme in the tongue also lead to a foul smell. Hence, the rate of this enzyme is also measured.
3. Gas Chromatography: These measure the three volatile sulphur compounds - Hydrogen Sulfide, Methyl Mercaptan and Dimethyl Sulfide.
4. BANA Test: These tests measure the particular enzyme which is produced by Halitosis-causing bacteria.

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Prevention of Halitosis

Brush Teeth Regularly

Make sure to brush your teeth twice a day, preferably once after each meal.

Floss

Flossing helps reduce the buildup of food particles and plaque between the teeth and gums.

Clean Your Dentures

If you wear dentures, a mouth-guard, or a bridge, make sure to clean them thoroughly. This can prevent any bacterial buildup.

Brush Tongue

Food, bacteria and dead cells commonly build up on the tongue. This is especially so for smokers or people with dry mouth. A tongue scraper can also be useful.

Follow a Proper Diet

Avoid having garlic, onions and spicy food as they can cause bad breath. Even sugary foods can create a foul odour. Make sure to also keep alcohol and coffee consumption in check.

Final Words

Halitosis is a common but manageable condition when properly diagnosed and treated. Early identification of its cause, whether oral, lifestyle-related or systemic, can drive effective management to curb it.

Taking care of your oral health is an important part of overall well-being. Regular dental check-ups and timely medical advice can help identify any concerns early. Having health insurance from Bajaj General Insurance can support access to healthcare services when needed. It will make sure that you are well prepared for the uncertainties of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

When should I see a dentist about bad breath?

It is recommended to seek professional help if bad breath persists despite keeping up good hygiene. Furthermore, if bad breath is accompanied by tooth pain or gum bleeding, consult a doctor immediately.

Are mouthwashes effective for Halitosis?

Antibacterial mouthwashes can temporarily reduce odours by lowering the bacterial levels in the mouth, but they do not replace proper brushing or tongue cleaning. Using alcohol-based mouthwashes may worsen dryness for some people.

How to prevent Halitosis for the long term?

A long-term prevention of Halitosis requires consistent oral hygiene, which includes brushing, flossing, tongue scraping and regular dental visits. Staying hydrated and avoiding certain foods (onion, garlic, spicy foods) can also help maintain good oral hygiene.

Can stress contribute to Halitosis?

Yes, stress can indirectly lead to bad breath. Stress reduces saliva production. It leads to a dry mouth. This leads to the odour-causing bacteria thriving. This leads to a bad smell in the mouth.

Is Halitosis Contagious in Nature?

Halitosis in itself is not contagious. It is a condition which is rather an infection. However, the bacteria which contribute to bad breath can be transferred through very close contact.

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The information presented is not meant to be a substitute for medical advice. Any suggestions mentioned should be considered for general use only. For expert guidance on any health ailment or medical issue or treatment/procedure, please consult a certified medical professional.