BAD BREATH ( Halitosis )

( Halitosis )
The condition is usually due to bacteria that act on food residues in the mouth. Bad breath is often more embarrassing than harmful, and can easily be prevented with good oral hygiene. However, there may be serious cause of bad breath, such as digestive, kidney, liver, respiratory disorder, sinusitis which may need medical attention. Liver failure gives the breath a mousy odor, kidney failure makes the breath smell like urine, and severe uncontrolled diabetes makes breath smell like nail polish remover.

Symptoms
* Bad breath observed when person exhales or speaks.

Common causes
* Poor oral hygiene. Improper flossing and brushing leave food particles on and in between teeth, under jacket crowns or bridges.
* Morning mouth.
* Gum disease.
* Tooth abscess or decay; build up of plaque.
* Sinusitis.
* Smoking.
* Certain types o food.
* Certain medications.

What you can do
* Brush and floss your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day.
Brush the tongue as well.
* Drink plenty of fluids to wash food particles from the mouth.
* Use a mouthwash or breath freshener.
* Stop smoking.
* Consult a dentist if recomended remedies do not remove unwanted smell.

What your dentist can do for you
* Check you mouth thoroughly or dental decay, gum disease and other oral problems and treat them.
* Refer to a doctor if necessary.

Prevention tips
* Practice good oral hygiene and have dental checkups twice a year. If you wear dentures, be sure to clean them after every meal. Remove the dentures and immerse them in water while sleeping at night.
* Blow a runny nose with the mouth open; otherwise, it may push the infected dischargeinto the sinuses and possibly infect them.
* Avoid smoking.