I have bad breath… What can I do?

Bad breath, also known by the medical term halitosis, is a common problem affecting between a quarter and a half of the French population, either occasionally or chronically. It manifests itself as an unpleasant odor emanating from the mouth. Fortunately, solutions exist to effectively treat this problem.

Causes of halitosis

Halitosis can be caused by a variety of factors. According to the Union française pour la santé bucco-dentaire, 90% of cases are linked to the proliferation of bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria break down proteins in food, saliva or oral cells, releasing volatile sulfur compounds that are malodorous.

Oral hygiene and nutrition

Poor oral hygiene is often the cause of halitosis. Lack of care can lead to plaque and tartar deposits, cavities, abscesses, canker sores and gingivitis, all of which can contribute to bad breath. In addition, certain foods such as garlic, onions, spices, coffee and alcohol can also cause unpleasant odours.

Other influencing factors

Other factors can influence breath quality, such as :

• Tobacco
• Dry mouth due to reduced saliva production
• Various pathologies such as gastroesophageal reflux disease, diabetes, liver or kidney disease, etc.

How to detect halitosis?

It’s easy to test for halitosis: lick the inside of your wrist, let the saliva dry and smell. If the smell is unpleasant, it’s likely that you’re suffering from halitosis.

Solutions for fresh breath

Good dental hygiene practices

To combat bad breath, impeccable dental hygiene is essential:

• Brush your teeth at least twice a day, using a soft-bristled toothbrush.
• Don’t forget to brush the tongue too.
• Use dental floss or interdental brushes daily to remove bacteria from between teeth.
• See your dentist regularly, at least once a year.

Dietary and lifestyle modifications

Drink at least 1.5 liters of water a day and avoid foods known to cause bad breath. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are also beneficial measures. During the day, rinsing your mouth regularly with water and using sugar-free chewing gum can help stimulate saliva production.

When should you consult a professional?

If you’re already following good hygiene practices without any noticeable improvement, it’s important to seek advice. Here are some warning signs that you should consult a dentist or doctor:

• Pain in the mouth or teeth
• Swollen or bleeding gums
• Persistent dry mouth
• Fever, sore throat, cough, or other unusual symptoms

Dental treatments for halitosis

During your visit, the dentist will perform a complete examination and may suggest treatments such as scaling, cavity repair or abscess treatment. He or she can also recommend suitable mouthwashes to complement brushing. He can also give you simple advice and techniques to combat bad breath.

If halitosis persists …

If oral treatments aren’t enough, a medical consultation is needed to explore other possible causes. Depending on the diagnosis, you may be referred to an ENT specialist, a gastroenterologist or another doctor.

By following this advice and adopting a healthy lifestyle, you can significantly improve the quality of your breath. For more personalized advice, don’t hesitate to visit the Claude Monet dental practice in Croissy sur Seine, where our team is ready to welcome you and help you manage your oral health.