LIFESTYLE: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT BAD BREATH (MOUTH ODOUR)

By Olakiitan S. Kolade

In a culture that frequently emphasizes the importance of first impressions, there is a stigma that can stifle even the most self-assured people, leaving a path of discomfort and social awkwardness in its wake. The hushed snicker in a busy place, the awkward step back during an intimate chat, and the rapid, subconscious hand-over-mouth gesture are all examples of the reaction this stigma evokes. We’re talking about bad breath or mouth odor, that perplexing, often misunderstood condition that can affect anyone, anywhere, at any time.

Halitosis is the medical term for “bad breath” and one of the most pleasant ways to describe mouth odor. It is the unpleasant smell that comes from the mouth due to the buildup of sulfuric compounds by bacteria in the mouth. It is also called fetor oris. The main symptom of halitosis is mouth odor, while the most common cause of halitosis is bad oral hygiene. Most of the time, bad breath is caused by what is happening in your mouth or throat. It is estimated to affect 1 in 4 people globally. Some people are concerned about their breath, even though they have little or no bad breath at all. This condition is called HALITOPHOBIA and can lead to obsessive mouth-cleaning behavior.

Bad breath odor varies depending on the underlying cause. It can smell fruity or sweet, rotten, fishy, or sour, and it could even smell like urine and feces. Some people have a mouth odor, but they are not aware of it. It is best to ask a friend to check your mouth odor, and if no one is available, one way to check is to lick your wrist or a spoon, leave it to dry for like ten seconds, and then smell. Having bad breath can be embarrassing and psychologically disturbing. You might notice that your friends are beginning to keep their distance, which might be because of bad breath.

Bad breath is mainly caused by poor oral hygiene. If you do not properly brush or floss, the remains of food in your mouth can become plaque and cause bad breath, but there are other causes of halitosis. They include:

• Foods: The particles left in the mouth, behind the tongue, and in between the teeth, if not properly washed off, will be acted upon by bacteria and can lead to the buildup of sulfuric compounds. Foods such as garlic and onions can cause some kind of odor, although it is short-lived.
• Smoking and Tobacco: Smoking and using tobacco can cause mouth odor.
• Health conditions. There are various health issues that can cause bad breath. These conditions include diabetes, kidney and liver diseases, and cancer, among others.
• Dry mouth is also called “Xerostomia”. It occurs when the body cannot produce enough saliva to keep the mouth moist and to reduce the buildup of bacteria in the mouth.
• Gum-related diseases such as periodontitis and gingivitis can also cause bad breath.
• Poor maintenance of dentures: mouth odor can also be caused if food particles pile up in between dentures that are not properly taken care of. Bacteria will act on the food pile, giving off a bad smell from the mouth.

Bad breath can be managed through simple routine measures.

• Maintain a twice-daily brushing routine. Ensure that you do not rush while cleaning your mouth because you should brush your teeth for approximately 2 minutes. It shouldn’t be a 30-second exercise. Replace your toothbrush at least every three months.
• Brush your tongue, as it has the ability to breed bacteria due to its moist nature. (Do not neglect beneath your tongue.) Tongue scrapping can be helpful as well.
• Floss daily. It is not enough to brush your teeth and tongue; flossing is also an important part of cleaning your mouth. Flossing involves the removal of particles that have settled in between teeth. You can use dental floss for this.
• Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and smoking.
• Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. This helps with metabolism and can improve your breath.
• Avoid dry mouth by staying hydrated. You can chew sugarless gums, as they help stimulate the production of saliva in the mouth.
• Gaggle with warm water and salt after eating odor-provoking foods like onions and garlic.
• Properly clean and care for any dental appliances, such as dentures and braces. Not properly cleaning them can cause bacteria to build up in between them.
• Visit the dentist to learn the causes of and solutions to your bad breath.
• Take care of your health. Sometimes bad breath that has refused to go even after simple routine measures can be associated with underlying health conditions. Which is why paying regular visits to your doctor is important.

Bad breath is a common issue that can affect everyone, but it is typically avoidable with good oral hygiene and a few lifestyle changes. Beyond the popular belief of people, using a breath mint can improve the smell of your breath, especially after a meal. However, for a long-lasting effect, maintaining a proper oral care routine, staying hydrated, controlling your food, and abstaining from tobacco and excessive alcohol usage are all important steps in preventing bad breath. You can comfortably engage in conversations without worrying about that unwanted breath if you follow these tips and are mindful of your general health.