A strong, unpleasant odor can signal a problem in the mouth or throat that requires medical attention. Sometimes, despite brushing, flossing, and using mouthwash, bad breath (halitosis) is persistent. In these cases, it’s important to seek the help of a dentist and primary care doctor for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment.입냄새원인
The majority of cases of bad breath are caused by poor dental hygiene or diet. Food particles collect on the tongue and between teeth, promoting bacteria that release odor-causing chemicals. A diet high in garlic, onions, and other pungent foods may contribute to bad breath as well. If these issues are not addressed, gum disease (gingivitis) can develop, which also releases odor-causing chemicals and is best treated by a dentist.
Smoking or chewing tobacco-based products can also cause bad breath, as can certain medications, such as nitrates used to treat angina and some chemotherapy drugs. Certain vitamins and herbal supplements can also produce a characteristic odor when they break down.
The cause of bad breath in a patient can often be determined by taking a detailed history and conducting a physical examination. During the exam, the Penn Dental Medicine dentist will examine the teeth, tongue and jaws and check for signs of gum disease. The doctor will also ask the patient about their eating habits and medications they are currently taking.
Depending on the findings of the dental and medical examination, the patient will receive a recommendation for further tests or treatments. Most often, a mouthwash or mouth rinse with an antibacterial agent is recommended to combat bad breath. In addition, the patient is advised to drink lots of water throughout the day, eat food that is high in fiber and avoid sugary foods, and chew on sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva production.
A gastrointestinal disorder can also be a cause of bad breath, since stomach acid can leak into the throat and mouth through a muscular channel that connects the esophagus with the stomach (Zenker diverticulum). This is more common in people with chronic reflux disease or a peptic ulcer. Sometimes, the odor of feces can be present in the breath, but this is rarely caused by a bowel obstruction or disease. Occasionally, bad breath can stem from small, bacteria-covered stones that form in the tonsils at the back of the throat. Infections and inflammation in the nose, mouth or sinuses can also contribute to halitosis.해우소한의원