Bad breath

Human breath is composed of highly complex substances with varying odors which results in unpleasant situations like halitosis. Bad breath or Halitosis is a condition where the breath is altered in an unpleasant manner for the affected individuals and produces variable odors that can generate unpleasant situations.

Bad breath is not a disease in itself but an irritating symptom which can bring botheration in social and personal rapport. Most of the time it is a temporary symptom that settles on its own depending upon the cause, but sometimes this small symptom can be intricate enough to deal with. This leads to loss of confidence and self-esteem.

• Primary reason is due to lack of oral hygiene.
• Xerostomia (Dry mouth).
• Food particles clogged between the dentures provide a seat for Bacteria to multiply.
• Excess intake of pungent foods like Onion, Garlic, eggs etc.
• Smoking, Alcohol consumption and Tobacco chewing.
• Due to any underlying diseases like Respiratory tract infection such as chronic cold and Sinusitis, Gastro Intestinal complaints like indigestion, constipation, acidity. Also, some kidney and liver diseases can be the cause of foul smelling breath.
• Sometimes Diet and Fasting can also be the reason, as it leads to dryness of mouth and allows plaque formation.

Also different medical conditions, impart different odor on the patient's breath.

• Diabetes – Fruity or citrusy breath
• Asthma or cystic fibrosis – Acidic breath
• Kidney problem – Scent of ammonia
• Hepatic cirrhosis – Musty or mousey odor
• Nasal malodor – Slightly cheesy character
• Bowel obstruction – Fecal odor.

The features of halitosis can include:

• A white coating generated on the tongue especially at the back of the tongue
• Dry oral cavity
• Morning bad breath and a burning tongue
• Thick saliva in the mouth and a constant need to clear the throat
• Presence of sour, bitter or metallic taste in the mouth.

Drink sufficient water to prevent excessive dryness of the mouth.

CARDAMOM

• Cardamom seeds are one of the best mouth fresheners, chewing the Cardamom seeds provides natural essence to the mouth.

CLOVE

• Chewing of Clove and cumin seeds after meals are very helpful.

FENUGREEK

• The Decoction made from Fenugreek seeds helps to get rid of Bad breath.

GARGLE

• Gargles with medicated water of Licorice, Indian Sarsaparilla and Turmeric powder cleanse and reduces the bacterial load in the oral cavity.