Halitosis is the scientific term for bad breath. It is not necessarily a symptom, although it can be a symptom of something else that is wrong; it is not a disease, although it can be caused by diseases. It is simply a latin name for something at least 25% of the population experiences. Classifying it is difficult, as the effects are as much cultural as they are medical – what one man may consider acceptable may be gut churning for someone else. Wikipedia sheds some light on this as well. The main causes of bad breath may not even be strictly dental, as gastrointestinal diseases may also cause this unfortunate side effect, and a host of other factors, such as hunger, may also cause bad breath.
Decaying teeth obviously have an unpleasant smell all on their own, but periodontal disease and dry mouth may also cause bad breath. Halitosis most often stems from plaque and the bacteria living in it, gum disease, or diseases of the tongue.
Luckily many home remedies are available, such as parsley or other green plants containing chlorophyll. Calendula is a good thing to gargle with, and myrrh can be used to restore your oral ph.
In an interesting article, it is revealed that many home remedies exist to battle bad breath. Avoiding dairy products, garlic, onions and other pungent foods is a good first step, as a diet of smelly foods will leave smelly breath behind. Smoking, or drinking alcohol or coffee may also cause bad breath, and these should also be enjoyed in moderation if at all. Chewing sugar free, minty gums and using mouthwash are good things to do, but they only mask halitosis. If changing your diet, using mouthwash, and maintaining good oral hygiene does not fix the problem, then it is time to book an appointment to the dentist.
This is quite normal, as a foul taste or smell is the third most popular reason for going to the dentist, right behind tooth decay and bleeding gums. If the dentist does not perceive the problem to be dental, then a trip to the gastroenterologist is in order.
Luckily many home remedies are available, such as parsley or other green plants containing chlorophyll. Calendula is a good thing to gargle with, and myrrh can be used to restore your oral ph. It is also good to carry a toothbrush with you, as some foods tend to form a slimy, bad smelling layer, or the particles may exude particularly foul smells. Thus if you brush right after eating you will remove that plaque and be left with a healthier, better smelling mouth.
