Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Bad breath (Halitosis) is a common complaint shared by millions. The source of the odor may come from the lungs, throat, mouth or nose. It may even be symptomatic of an underlying medical problem. For example, diabetes, liver disease or a post nasal drip from a cold or sinus infection. All have odors associated with them, however, the vast majority of cases of halitosis are due to oral health. Oral causes of halitosis include oral cancer, tooth abscesses, periodontal disease, as well as open contacts that trap food and faulty restorations.
If we can rule out medical causes and I've ruled out obvious dental problems, the cause that remains is the tongue. The number one cause of bad breath is the overgrowth of bacteria on the tongue. These bacteria give off volatile sulfur compounds and these compounds are the cause of halitosis for most people. The treatment is to control the bacteria populations by thorough scraping (tongue blade) and brushing of the tongue at least twice a day. If you can keep the bacteria under control, you will greatly reduce the sulfur compound they give off.
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