Many people suffer from bad breath which is also known as mouth odour. Anyone can suffer from bad breath. It is estimated that 1 in 4 people have bad breath regularly. Simple home remedies and lifestyle changes, such as improved dental hygiene and avoidance of some food can help prevent bad breath. Below are some causes of bad breath:
Tobacco
Tobacco products such as cigarettes, cause their own types of mouth odour. They increase the chances of gum disease which can also cause bad breath. It is essential to reduce the intake of things like tobacco, they can be taken once in a while.
Food
There are some foods that cause bad breath. Some foods such as onions and garlic can also cause bad breath. After they are digested, the breakdown products are carried in the blood to the lungs where they can affect the breath. It is advisable to brush the teeth after taking meals like this. Also, particles of food can be stuck in the teeth which might cause bad breath if not taken care of.
Dry mouth
Medical situations such as xerostomia causes dry mouth which causes mouth odour. Also, dry mouth generally causes bad breath, however, saliva naturally cleanses the mouth. It is okay to drink water to avoid dry mouth which can lead to bad breath.
Dental hygiene
Poor dental hygiene can cause bad breath. Brushing and flossing ensure the removal of small particles of food that can build up and slowly break down, producing odour. Dentures that are not cleaned regularly or properly can also harbour bacteria that cause halitosis which is also known as bad breath.
Diseases
Some cancers, liver failure, and other metabolic diseases can cause bad breath, because of the specific mixes of chemicals they produce. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause bad breath because of the regular reflux of stomach acids.
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