subject: Bad breath: Causes and Treatments [print this page] Bad breath: Causes and Treatments
The medical term for bad breath is halitosis. It is an embarrassing problem that plagues many people. Bed breath is caused from multiple factors.
What causes bad breath
The most common cause of bad breath is bacteria in the mouth (bacteria in the mouth is caused by many of the reasons below)
Poor dental health (not brushing or flossing)
Food particles that are trapped between your teeth
Smoking or chewing tobacco
Certain food (foods are absorbed into your blood and eventually make their way back to your lungs where they are breathed out)
Gum disease
Plaque on the teeth
Yeast infections in the mouth
Dental cavities
Dry mouth
Some respiratory tract infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia, sinus infections or throat infections)
Some diseases such as diabetes, liver or kidney problems
Certain medications (antihistamines like Benadryl or other allergy medications and diuretics can dry the mouth, some medications for depression can lead to bad breath)
Who needs a doctor/dentists?
Anyone suspected of having any type of oral disease should see a dentist. Clues that would suggest oral disease include: Swollen gums, easily bleeding gums, tooth pain, oral pain and hot or cold sensitivity.
Anyone suspected of having a medical condition associated with bad breath should see the doctor. Clues that would suggest medical diseases suggestive of bad breath include: cough, fever, shortness of breath, facial pain, excessive urination, fatigue, nasal congestion or a sore throat.
How do you prevent bad breath
Avoiding the causes of bad breath are the most important steps in preventing bad breath. The following are a list of prevention methods:
Brush regularly
Floss regularly
Use mouthwashes
Brush your tongue
Drink lots of water
Do not use tobacco products
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