Khaberni - Some people feel embarrassed due to bad breath, especially in the early morning. But is this smell natural that one can live with, or is it a treatable problem?
Oral and Tongue Hygiene
Brushing and flossing teeth are important, but to maintain a healthy mouth and fresh breath, it is also necessary to clean the tongue, where a biofilm filled with bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds like hydrogen sulfide accumulates, and these are the main cause of bad breath.
Studies indicate that the tongues of people suffering from bad breath contain six times the bacteria compared to others.
A toothbrush or special tool can be used to clean the tongue twice daily, focusing on the rear part without causing nausea. This temporarily reduces bacteria and improves the sense of taste, as well as gives a refreshing feeling to the mouth. The tool should be cleaned well after use.
Mouthwash: Temporary but Effective
Some types of mouthwash containing compounds such as Chlorhexidine or zinc can reduce bacteria, but they may cause tooth discoloration or affect blood pressure with regular use. Therefore, it is advised to use them moderately as part of the oral care routine.
Foods that Affect Breath Odor
Foods play a major role in the formation of odor, especially foods rich in sulfur like garlic, onions, and leeks, in addition to grilled meat, seafood, dairy products, and some tropical fruits and beverages like coffee.
Smoking also increases the severity of the problem, while mint tablets provide only a temporary solution.
Morning Breath
Waking up with bad breath is natural due to reduced saliva production at night, which allows bacteria to multiply. The condition can worsen in hot environments or when sleeping with an open mouth.
Bad breath also worsens when suffering from respiratory tract infections or influenza.
When is Bad Breath an Indicator of a Health Problem?
In some cases, persistent bad breath could indicate medical issues like chronic dry mouth or Sjögren's syndrome or be a side effect of certain medications.
Sometimes, the cause may be outside the mouth, such as digestive disorders. Therefore, if the smell does not improve despite daily care, it is recommended to first consult a dentist, and then a general physician if necessary.
