The mouth is a warm, wet environment that provides the perfect breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria produce volatile sulfuric compounds (VSCs) that give the breath a foul odor. The odors from food also contribute to bad breath, particularly garlic and onions. In addition, certain drugs can contribute to halitosis, such as the nitrates used to treat angina and some chemotherapy chemicals. The breakdown of sugary foods, like sweets, can also cause halitosis.입냄새원인
Brushing the teeth twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily help to eliminate bacteria and food particles. If you wear dentures, you should clean them regularly to prevent the buildup of plaque and tartar. Brushing your tongue can help to remove odor-producing bacteria, as well. A mouthwash that contains antibacterial agents can also be beneficial in preventing bad breath.
Poor dental hygiene is one of the leading causes of bad breath. Bacteria that is not brushed away can irritate the gums and lead to periodontal disease, which can produce a foul odor in the mouth.
Alcohol and tobacco products can also cause bad breath, as they dehydrate the mouth. Chewing gum can stimulate the production of saliva, but be sure to choose a brand that is sugar-free, as many chewing gums contain a significant amount of sugar. Drinking plenty of water can also help to improve your breath. If you have a chronic dry mouth, your dentist can recommend ways to encourage the flow of saliva.
If your bad breath does not improve despite practicing good oral hygiene and changing diet, you should see your family doctor or the dentist. They can determine if the halitosis is due to an underlying health condition such as a respiratory infection, a gastrointestinal issue or a liver or kidney problem.
In some cases, the odor can be a warning sign of diabetes, such as ketoacidosis, which is when low levels of insulin cause the body to break down fat stores for energy, producing a strong and unpleasant odor. The odor can also be a result of a lung or sinus infection. If the odor is caused by a food or foreign body in the throat, a visit to a specialist may be necessary. If the odor is caused by bacterial overgrowth on the tonsils, this can usually be treated with antibiotics. However, if the cause is due to a gastrointestinal problem or an infection of the respiratory tract, a visit to a physician is recommended. This can include the dentist, who may refer the patient to a specialist in the ear, nose and throat, or to another doctor who specializes in the mouth. If there is a serious concern, the doctor can prescribe treatment to help resolve the halitosis and eliminate the odor. This will often include a prescription of an antimicrobial mouth rinse and/or a referral to a periodontist for treatment of the gum disease.해우소한의원