Bad breath, known in medical terms as halitosis, is one of the most common ailments affecting a large part of the population. This condition can deeply impact self-esteem, social relationships and quality of life. It is a problem that, at first glance, might seem minor; however, in many cases, it reflects shortcomings in oral hygiene or even more serious health problems. In this article, we will thoroughly explore the causes, symptom y Remedies most effective ways to combat this condition, as well as preventative measures to ensure fresh, healthy breath.
What is halitosis and what are its main causes?
Halitosis is a term that refers to bad breath coming from the oral cavity. Although in many cases this problem can be temporary, in other cases it can become chronic, causing greater inconvenience. There are various causes behind halitosis, which can be divided into two main categories:
- transient halitosis: This type of bad breath occurs momentarily, usually upon waking in the morning due to reduced salivary flow during sleep. It can also be triggered by specific foods such as garlic, onions or strong spices.
- persistent halitosis: This type of halitosis manifests itself over a long period of time and may be associated with underlying medical conditions, periodontal diseases, or gastrointestinal problems.
The main causes include:
Causes related to the oral cavity
- Poor oral hygiene: The accumulation of plate and food debris between the teeth and on the tongue is a common source of bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds.
- Gum diseases: Conditions such as gingivitis and periodontitis promote the proliferation of bacteria anaerobic bacteria that cause bad odor.
- Dry mouth or xerostomia: Lack of salivary flow makes it difficult to clean the mouth naturally, facilitating bacterial growth.
Extraoral factors
- Digestive problems: Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux and infection Helicobacter pylori can influence bad breath.
- Systemic diseases: Problems such as diabetes, liver or kidney disease can also cause particular breath odors.
- Tobacco and alcohol use: These substances affect both oral and general health, leaving chemical residues that intensify bad breath.
To learn more about the specific causes of halitosis, we recommend reading our article Bad Breath: What Causes It and How to Get Rid of It.
Warning signs: When does halitosis require medical attention?
Halitosis may be indicative of a more serious health condition if:
- Bad breath persists even after implementing basic oral hygiene measures.
- The smell takes on particular characteristics, such as metallic, sour, or chemical-like.
- There are accompanying symptoms such as stomach pain, persistent dry mouth or changes in the taste in the mouth.
In these cases it is important to go to the dentist or doctor for a evaluation professional life.
Practical strategies to combat bad breath
1. Maintain rigorous oral hygiene
It is essential to adopt a cleaning routine that includes:
- Brushing after every meal: Using a toothpaste with fluoride.
- Cleaning the tongue: Use a tongue scraper to remove bacteria accumulated.
- Flossing to remove hard-to-reach food debris.
- Complete your routine with an antibacterial mouthwash.
2. Watch your diet
Eating foods like apples, carrots, or celery can help you keep your mouth clean naturally. Limit the consumption of foods with strong odors and opt for a balance diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
3. Hydrate properly
Drinking water stimulates the production of saliva and prevents dry mouthAvoid substances such as coffee and alcohol that contribute to xerostomia.
4. Change harmful habits
Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol consumption not only benefits your overall health, but significantly improves the freshness of your breath.
5. Make regular visits to the dentist
Regular checkups and professional cleanings help identify and prevent oral problems. underlying.
Effective home remedies against bad breath
- Parsley: Chew fresh parsley; its chlorophyll content helps neutralize odors.
- Green Tea: Its antimicrobial properties combat bacteria mouth.
- Apple vinager: Rinsing with a glass of water diluted in water regulates oral pH.
- Mint infusions for fresh breath all day long.
Keeping your breath fresh not only has social benefits, but also reflects good oral health. By following these strategies and consulting a professional when warning signs arise, it is possible to effectively combat halitosis.