Halitosis or bad breath can be caused by poor oral health habits, and can be a warning sign of other serious medical conditions. Bad breath caused by poor oral hygiene can also make you physically ill, and can even be made worse if you consume certain types of food, and engage in other unhealthy habits. But the good news is that many people can take steps to ensure that halitosis does not become a serious problem that can lead to serious issues down the road.
The first thing you should do if you have bad breath is to visit your dentist to have it examined. The dentist will examine your teeth and gums to check for any problems that might be causing your bad breath. The dentist may also look for other serious dental conditions like cavities or gum disease. If you are experiencing chronic bad breath caused by problems with your gums and teeth then you should consider getting professional help as soon as possible.
Your dentist will give you advice on what you can do to keep your mouth healthy on a regular basis. You can help yourself by brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing twice a day, and visiting your dentist for teeth cleaning at least once a year. There are several home remedies that you can try to keep your mouth and teeth in the best shape they can be. One of the most common bad breath remedies is to brush your teeth using an orange peel or any citrus substance, and then rinse your mouth thoroughly with water. However, some people find that this treatment is ineffective because of the smell associated with citrus.
Some people may try to use a mouthwash to eliminate their bad breath. This remedy works to kill bacteria-causing organisms that are inside the mouth. There are also mouthwashes available that are made from herbs like parsley, mint, peppermint and eucalyptus. They can help keep the mouth clean and odor-free.
Certain types of food and drinks can actually be responsible for the formation of odor-causing bacteria in the mouth. For example, people who often eat garlic and onions may experience chronic bad breath caused by these foods. If you have a family history of halitosis then you might want to avoid consuming such foods because they can contribute to the condition.
Bad breath can be a signal of more serious medical conditions and is something that you should always watch for. However, many people can find that a change in their diet and their oral hygiene habits can significantly reduce and even eliminate their halitosis in many cases.
