Peppermint candies, mouth sprays, mouthwashes, etc….. All of them are offered as a cosmetic solution to the service of individuals who face the problem of bad breath. Of course, we cannot discuss the short-term success of these products. However, I believe that it would be much more useful to discuss the causes and hows of bad breath, which seems to be a cosmetic problem.
It is possible to collect the causes of bad breath problem under 2 main headings. These are:
1. Those of intraoral origin
2. Those due to systemic diseases.
Halitosis originating from the mouth is the remnants of bacteria living in the oral cavity.
It occurs due to sulfur compounds. Dead and dying bacteria release sulfur compounds. Bacterial layers and food residues accumulate on the back of the tongue. The surface of the tongue is very rough and suitable for bacteria to live on. If the tooth and tongue surface are not cleaned, this causes bad breath. In addition, dental caries, periodontal (gum diseases) diseases and constant dry mouth can also cause bad breath. Other oral causes of bad breath are smelly foods, the habit of using tobacco products and worn dentures. Elimination of disease factors in the mouth and good oral care will provide the solution of such odors.
Bad breath, for which no intraoral cause can be found, may be a sign of a disease. These are:
one. Causes related to sinusitis: Sinusitis is inflammation of the cavities in the facial bones. This inflammation causes a yellow-green discharge to flow into the nasal passages. As a result, an unpleasant odor occurs in the breath.
2. Causes of tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils in the mouth area leads to a solid-consistent tonsil rash called “magma”. This manifests itself in the form of bad breath in patients.
3. Diseases of the stomach and intestinal system: Especially today, “reflux”, which is one of the most talked about stomach disorders, causes bad breath. Reflux; It is the condition that the acid content in the stomach escapes up the esophagus and irritates the back wall of the throat and the entrance of the vocal cords.
4. Fungal infections on the root of the tongue: In some cases, fungal infections on the root of the tongue also cause bad breath.
5. Diabetes: Bad breath, which is seen especially in Type 1 of diabetes, can sometimes be a harbinger of this disease. Halitosis in these patients is characterized by the odor of “acetone”.
6. All systemic diseases and drugs that cause dry mouth: Diseases such as rheumatic diseases (Sjogren’s syndrome), immune system damage (AIDS), hormonal disorders (diabetes disorder), neurological disorders (Parkinson’s), and over 400 drugs such as diuretics, decongestants, antihistamines, etc. can cause this.
First of all, it is possible to prevent bad breath with a good oral care.
Your routine dental practice will ensure that you are away from oral problems. Except this:
1. Chewing cloves
2. Drinking 2 liters of water a day
3. Not neglecting tongue cleaning
4. Not neglecting dental floss
5. Avoiding too much tea and coffee consumption
6. Avoiding tobacco products
7. Consuming tooth-friendly gum and candies
8. Brushing teeth at least 2 times a day
They are your first steps to a fresh breath.
It should be noted that; cosmetic recommendations produce only temporary solutions. Going to the root of the problem and investigating it is important for both your oral health and your body health.
