What is Halitosis? 1Dental health is important for overall health, but many people don’t realize that poor dental health can lead to bad breath, or Halitosis. Halitosis is a condition that can be caused by a number of things, including poor dental hygiene, certain foods, and this is largely due to the presence of sulphur producing bacteria on the tongue and in the throat. Causes of Halitosis and How to Treat Them Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be a major source of embarrassment. It’s also a common problem, affecting an estimated 25 to 50 percent of the population. The cause of bad breath may be as simple as eating certain foods or not practicing good oral hygiene. However, in some cases, bad breath may be a sign of a more serious condition. The most common cause of halitosis is poor oral hygiene. Plaque, a sticky film of food debris, bacteria, and saliva, constantly forms on your teeth. If you don’t remove plaque with brushing and flossing, it hardens into tartar, which can cause bad breath. Treating Halitosis The treatment for halitosis will depend on the underlying cause. Good oral hygiene is the most important thing you can do to prevent and treat bad breath. Be sure to brush your teeth twice a day and floss daily. If you have bad breath that doesn’t go away after brushing your teeth and tongue, or if you have other symptoms like a sore throat or dry mouth, you should see a doctor. Your dentist can help determine the cause of your halitosis and recommend treatment. If your bad breath is due to gum disease, your dentist will likely recommend a professional cleaning and special mouthwash. If your bad breath is due to a sinus infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics.
