Oman health: Prevention and treatment for bad breath

Bad breath, also known as halitosis or foul smell, affects an estimated 25 per cent of people, globally. There are a number of causes of halitosis but the vast majority come down to bad oral hygiene. Millions of bacteria live in the mouth, particularly on the back of the tongue. The mouth’s warm, moist conditions are ideal for the growth of these bacteria. Most bad breath is caused by these bacteria in the mouth. Some types of bad breath are considered to be normal. One example is “morning mouth.” This occurs because of changes in your mouth while you sleep. During the day, saliva washes away decaying food and odours. The body makes less saliva at night. Your mouth becomes dry, and dead cells stick to your tongue and to the inside of your cheeks. When bacteria use these cells for food, they produce a foul odour.

Main causes of bad breath
You may not always know that you have bad breath. That is because odour-detecting cells in the nose eventually get used to the smell. Other people may notice and react by stepping away from you as you speak, or by making a face. Here are the main causes of bad breath:
• The most common cause of halitosis is bad oral hygiene.
• If particles of food are left in the mouth, their breakdown by bacteria produces sulphur compounds.
• Smoking, tooth decay, and alcohol consumption also cause bad breath.
• Dry mouth also causes bad breath. Keeping the mouth hydrated can reduce mouth odour.
• Bad breath in children is often due to a trapped item in the nasal cavity.
• Tonsillitis or sinusitis can also cause bad breath.
• Rarer causes of bad breath include bowel obstruction, ketoacidosis and aspiration pneumonia. It is also common in patients suffering from gastric acidity or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR).

Diagnosis
A dentist may notice bad breath during your visit. Sometimes, the smell of the patient’s breath may suggest a likely cause for the problem. For example, “fruity” breath may be a sign of uncontrolled diabetes. A urine-like smell, especially in a person who is at high risk of kidney disease, can sometimes indicate kidney failure.

Prevention and treatment for bad breath
The best method to reduce halitosis is by keeping good oral hygiene which means regular brushing, flossing, and hydration.
Other lifestyle and home remedies for bad breath include:
• Brushing teeth at least twice a day, but preferably after each meal.
• Flossing reduces the build-up of food particles, and plaque from between the teeth.
• Dentures, bridge or mouth guard should be cleaned on a daily basis.
• Changing toothbrush every three months is also recommended.
• Brush tongue regularly to remove bacteria, food, and dead cells that build up on the tongue.
• Avoid dry mouth by drinking plenty of water. Avoid alcohol and tobacco, both of which dehydrate the mouth.
• Sugary foods are also linked to bad breath. Reduce coffee and alcohol consumption.
It is recommended to visit the dentist for a check-up twice a year. If gum disease is present, professional cleaning may be necessary to clear out the build-up of bacteria in pockets between the gums and teeth.
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Dr Richa Raj is a practising dental surgeon at Pearly White Dental Centre, Al Khuwair