Pattaya Daily News

Our own noses have a natural function to filter out any odors as our breath enters the through an opening at the back of the mouth. Many of us have bad breath on waking. While we are awake throughout the day, the movement of our tongue and cheeks help in the removal of all debris which is cleared away by the saliva.  While we are sleeping, the tongue and cheek rarely moves and the flow of saliva is minimal so as a result, any particles of food still in the mouth are broken down by bacteria, which releases a foul smell.  Generally, this sort of bad breath will disappear after a good brushing of the teeth and rinsing of the mouth.

Adults suffering with bad breath can be caused by unknown health problems, but is generally just bad hygiene. Constant consummation of alcohol and cigarettes are often a trigger for bad breath. Foods high is odor such as garlic, onions etc is a great contribution to bad breath which can last up to 72 hours after eating. Another symptom of bad breath can be related to gum disease. As gum disease is rarely painful, it can remain undetected for a length of time.

Chest problems such as chronic bronchitis, fasting and particular medicines are also causes for bad breath in adults.  Avoiding some foods will help disperse with temporary bad breath, but when the problem is constant, you should consult your dentist for treatment, then your doctor if the problem still persists.

Children and adolescents suffering bad breath is very common especially for the ones who sleep with their mouths open as saliva dries up and so any debris will stay in the mouth. Dry mouths promote growth of bacteria. Children suffering from sinus or allergies, having blocked nasal passages which in turn leads to breathing through their mouths will suffer from bad breath.

Cavities, inflamed gums or enlarged tonsils, are all contributory factors to bad breath. The various types of bacteria in the mouth react with the food particles which then release hydrogen sulphide vapors that cause the smell and eventually leaving a colourless sticky film on the teeth, eventually, if oral hygiene is not applied regularly, the film will transform to a hard substance known as plaque which can cause tooth decay leading to bad breath.

Maintaining a good oral care and visiting the dentist twice a year for regular cleanings can help you to prevent bad breath. However, if bad breath persists, do not ignore this problem for long as it can lead to some serious health issues.

Patty Brown

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