Although it’s often the cause of many jokes halitosis is a very embarrassing problem. Not many realize though that the smell of bad breath may be evidence of a much worse medical problem. Sufferers from halitosis need to find out what the root cause of their problem is. Halitosis is not a condition that should be treated lightly.

Basic Oral Hygiene

Generally halitosis or bad breath is caused by poor oral hygiene or an unsuitable diet. Those with bad breath are often just guilty of not cleaning their teeth properly or have a diet that consists of high protein meats or similar foods. Everyone needs to understand that the mouth and tongue, as well as the teeth, need to be cleaned regular. If possible three times a day. Food particles, bacteria, yeast and plaque all contribute to the bad smell associated with halitosis and need to be eliminated by regular brushing and cleaning. This is the simplest cure for halitosis and something that can be done without the help of a doctor or dentist.

Decaying Teeth And Oral Infections

Tooth decay and gum disease are another cause of halitosis. If you have maintained a good oral hygiene routine but find that you still have a problem then make an appointment with your dentist. It may be that a rotten tooth is causing the problem or maybe you have some form of gum disease. The dentist can advise on the main course of treatment if you have one of these symptoms. Often a simple procedure can cure the problem. If however the dentist cannot find the problem causing the bad breath then you will need to be referred to your doctor for further examination.

Medical Causes Of Halitosis

There are a lot of medical problems that can cause halitosis. It maybe something as simple as a person’s diet. In any case you should seek advice from your doctor just to make sure there is no underlying medical condition that may require treatment. Your doctor can perform several tests to establish what the root cause of the problem may be.

It is not uncommon for suffers of halitosis to be having a reaction from a medication they are taking. If this is the case your doctor can usually offer alternative medicines that will bring the situation under control. Doctors are well aware that bad breath is not always just a matter of poor hygiene and will often look at other underlying problems.

Diabetes and renal infections are other conditions that can cause bad breath. These problems are quite life threatening so next time you make a joke of somebody’s bad breath think again. By having a discreet word with them you may not only be helping them to improve their social life but you really could be helping to save their life.

Lisa Hoits is a oral hygiene specialist that works with patients to cure their bad breath. She also publishes articles about curing bad breath at her website BadBreathConsultant.com