What is Bad Breath (Halitosis)?
In our daily lives, the question “How to prevent bad breath?” is a frequently encountered curiosity about oral health. Bad breath is an annoying condition that negatively affects our social life and can be caused by many different reasons. In this article, we will discuss in detail what bad breath is, its symptoms, ways to prevent it, how it passes on to babies and how foods affect bad breath.
First of all, it is necessary to know the answer to the question “What is bad breath?” Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is the general name for bad odors coming from the mouth. This condition can seriously affect a person’s social and psychological life. Bad breath can usually be caused by both inside and outside the mouth. Causes of inside the mouth include tooth decay, gum disease, bacteria accumulated on the tongue and inadequate oral hygiene. Extraoral causes can be digestive system problems, respiratory tract infections and some autoimmune (systemic) diseases.
What are the Symptoms of Bad Breath (Halitosis)?
The symptoms of bad breath may not usually be noticed by the person himself. However, people around him notice this situation more easily. The main symptoms of bad breath are as follows:
Bad Breath Odor: It can be described as a bad smell that is noticed when we wake up in the morning or after not eating for a long time.
Dry and Sticky Feeling in the Mouth: Dry mouth occurs as a result of decreased saliva secretion and therefore an increase in bacteria.
Metallic or Bitter Taste: It is a strange taste felt in the mouth after consuming certain foods and drinks.
White or Yellowish Coating on the Tongue: It is a layer formed by bacteria accumulating on the surface of the tongue.
How to Prevent Bad Breath?
There are some simple but effective measures that can be taken to prevent bad breath. Here are the things to do to prevent bad breath:
Regular Teeth Brushing and Flossing: Brush your teeth at least twice a day and use dental floss to clean food residues between your teeth.
Tongue Cleaning: Use a tongue cleaner to clean bacteria accumulated on the surface of the tongue.
Drinking Plenty of Water: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dry mouth. Balanced Diet: Avoid sugary and starchy foods, consume more fruits and vegetables.
Regular Dentist Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly and have your teeth professionally cleaned.
Why Does Bad Breath Occur in Babies? How Can It Be Treated?
Bad breath in babies is a condition that many parents worry about. But before you worry, it is important to understand the possible causes and solutions behind this odor.
Common Causes
Lack of Oral Hygiene: Food residue left on babies’ gums and tongues can cause bacteria to multiply and cause bad breath. This is especially common in babies who are bottle-fed.
Teething: During teething, babies’ gums become sensitive and can cause inflammation in the mouth. This can cause temporary bad breath.
Thrush: Thrush, a fungal infection, covers the tongue and inside the mouth with a white layer and causes bad breath.
Infections: Some infections such as throat infections and sinusitis can also cause bad breath.
Digestive Problems: Stomach acid rising up the throat (gastroesophageal reflux) can cause bad breath.
Some Foods: Temporary bad breath may occur after consuming certain foods such as onion, garlic, and cabbage.
Solution Suggestions
You can follow these steps to eliminate your baby’s bad breath.
Pay Attention to Babies’ Oral Hygiene: Your baby’s teeth and gums should be gently cleaned with a soft toothbrush.
Check Baby Food: The content of baby food can cause bad breath. Therefore, the content of baby food should be checked and changed if necessary.
Ensure They Drink Plenty of Water: Dry mouth can be prevented by increasing babies’ water consumption.
See a Doctor: If bad breath persists, you should see a doctor to see if there is another underlying health problem.
Remember: Your baby’s bad breath is not always a sign of a health problem. In most cases, you can easily solve this problem by paying attention to oral hygiene.
