Chronic Halitosis

Halitosis is an oral problem characterized by bad breath. A little bit of occasional bad breath is a very normal thing, but chronic halitosis needs proper medical care and treatment. Although it is still not a very serious disease, chronic halitosis can cause a lot of social problems and often lead to low self esteem.

The most common reason for halitosis is poor oral hygiene. Food particles that are stuck in the mouth decompose and become a breeding ground for bacteria. These bacteria feed on these decomposed food particles and emit gases that gives a foul smell to the mouth. There are also other factors that may increase your chances of chronic halitosis. Cigarette smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and improper diet can make your condition worse. Lack of saliva in the mouth is another cause of halitosis. Saliva is important for cleaning the tongue and keeping our mouth fresh. If the salivary glands become underproductive for some reason or if you suffer from dehydration, it may also cause halitosis. Chronic halitosis may also be an indication of some underlying disease in the body. Most often halitosis can be cured with a little bit of oral care and dietary or lifestyle changes. But, in some chronic cases you may have to consult your dentist and undergo proper medical treatment. Even otherwise, a regular visit to the dentist is advisable because plaque and tartar deposited on the teeth need regular cleaning. This can only be done properly by a dentist.

The first step towards halitosis treatment is to ensure proper oral hygiene. Brush your teeth daily and floss regularly so that food particles do not remain lodged in the mouth for long. You can also gargle your mouth with a baking soda solution. A spoonful of baking soda, which is also known as sodium bicarbonate, should be mixed in a glass of lukewarm water and used for gargling. Clove oil, apple cider vinegar, and diluted hydrogen peroxide can also be added to the gargling water. Alternatively, you can also use them with the toothpaste when you brush your teeth. Chewing on parsley, mint and basil leaves also helps in reducing the foul odor of mouth.

You also need to be careful with what you eat. Avoid dairy products, high fat foods, and caffeinated beverages. Onion and garlic should be dropped from your diet as they can be immensely foul-smelling. Eat a good amount of fresh vegetables and fruits and do not forget to drink plenty of water throughout the day.