Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Halitosis is a term coined from the merger of the Latin halitus (breath) and Greek osis (pathological process) to describe a condition that means an unpleasant odour from the mouth or bad breath. Bad breath is mostly caused by sulphur-producing bacteria that normally live on the surface of the tongue and in the throat. The major causes include a dry mouth caused by certain foods, smoking, poor oral hygiene and a coated tongue.

 

What is bad breath or Halitosis?

Good oral hygiene will often solve the problem. Bad breath could shatter a person’s self-confidence and self-esteem and lead to a situation of social isolation and even depression.

• Poor oral hygiene.

• Gum diseases.

• Lactose intolerance.

• Dry mouth.

• Tooth decay.

• The coating on the tongue is caused by bacterial infection.

• Fasting.

• Smoking.

• Tobacco chewing.

• Throat infection.

• Chronic sinusitis/post-nasal drip.

• Chronic bronchitis.

• Diabetes.

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).

• Liver and kidney disease.

• Sjogren’s syndrome.

• Some foods.

What are the signs and symptoms of Halitosis?

• Dryness of mouth.

• Bitter taste of mouth.

• Swollen gums.

• Pus

• Sore throat.

• Tooth Abscess.

• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck.

• Stuffy nose.

• Cavities in teeth

• Burning in the mouth

• loosely fitted dentures.

• Sores in the buccal cavity.

• Pain while chewing or swallowing.

• White spots in the buccal cavity and tonsils.

• Fever.

• Bleeding gums.

• Diabetes.

What investigations are advised for Halitosis?

• Complete Dental Checkup.

• x-ray of mouth, chest and sinuses.

• Halometer test.

• Blood work.

• Urine test.

What treatment is advised for Halitosis?

• Dental Checkup.

• Artificial saliva for dry mouth.

• Toothpaste and mouthwash prescribed by a dentist.

• Periodontist for gum treatments.

What is the prognosis of Halitosis?

Bad breath (halitosis) is usually more of a nuisance than a serious medical condition it eliminates on its own or when treated.

What diet management is advised for Halitosis?

• Brush at least twice a day with fluoride-content toothpaste.

• Floss teeth well.

• Regular dental checkups.

• Eating apples, guava, and fenugreek seeds helps.

• Orange, lemon or grapefruit helps fight bad breath.

• A diluted ½ teaspoon of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water.

• Gargle with 1 tablespoon salt water three times a day.

• Rinsing the mouth with a mixture of lemon extract helps.

• Nutritional and healthy diet helps.

• Brush the teeth after every meal.

• Brush tongue.

• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months.

• Stop smoking.

• Stop chewing tobacco-based products.

• Keep the mouth moist, drink water, and chew sugarless gums.

• Avoid foods such as cheese, onion or garlic.

• Mouthwash provides a temporary relief.

• Chew mint pr parsley helps.

• A cup of unsweetened black tea keeps bad breath away.

What are the commonly indicated homoeopathic medications for Halitosis?

Arnica Montana

Aurum met

Mercurius solubilis

Nitricum acidum

Nux vomica

Pulsatilla pratensis

 

 

 

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