Bad breath, or halitosis, is a common problem that can have serious social or professional consequences. The good news is that it usually is a temporary condition that can be prevented or managed by improved oral hygiene, diet and lifestyle habits. In some cases, halitosis may be a sign of a more serious health condition, so it’s important to visit your dentist or doctor for a thorough evaluation.구취원인
The majority of halitosis is due to poor oral hygiene, and most cases can be corrected with regular brushing and flossing, use of mouthwash, and by avoiding certain foods that cause odor, such as garlic and onions. In addition, drinking lots of water, especially at meal times, and chewing on sugar-free gum or candies to stimulate saliva flow, can help to eliminate bad breath.
Other factors that can affect your breath include the use of tobacco products, heavy alcohol consumption, and respiratory infections such as sinusitis or bronchitis. Some gastrointestinal conditions, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and ulcers can also contribute to unpleasant breath. And for some people, unpleasant breath can be a symptom of uncontrolled diabetes or liver or kidney disease.
Lastly, some medications can cause unpleasant or foul odors in the mouth. These medications include antidepressants, some antibiotics and a number of dietary supplements. If you suspect that a medication or supplement is contributing to your halitosis, talk to your doctor about changing your prescription or discontinuing the medicine altogether.
Your dentist can usually determine the cause of your halitosis, and treat it as necessary. For example, if you have gum disease or tooth decay, the dentist can clean and repair your teeth to reduce the odor caused by bacteria. He or she can also provide treatment for other underlying conditions, such as acid reflux or a sinus infection.
However, if the cause of your bad breath is not dental in nature, your dentist will refer you to your doctor or other specialists to treat the underlying condition. Treatments for these conditions can range from a prescription mouthwash to a more serious treatment such as surgery or an endoscopy. Some medications and treatments can even lead to unpleasant side effects, such as a metallic taste in the mouth or sore throat. These symptoms should be reported to your doctor or dentist right away so that they can be treated as soon as possible.해우소한의원