BAD BREATH (HALITOSIS) AND ORAL CARE
Bad Breath (Halitosis): Causes and Lasting Solutions
Bad breath (halitosis) is a problem affecting approximately 25-30% of the population and negatively impacting a person's social life. While temporary odors are often food-related, persistent bad breath usually indicates an underlying cause requiring treatment. Prodenta Dental Clinic in Ataşehir provides lasting solutions by accurately identifying the source of bad breath.
Main Causes of Bad Breath
Oral causes (85–90% of cases):
Insufficient brushing and flossing (bacterial plaque buildup)
Gum disease (periodontitis): Anaerobic bacteria in deep gum pockets produce a strong odor.
Tooth decay and infected root canals
Bacterial buildup on the back of the tongue
Dentures with poor oral hygiene or that cannot be properly cleaned
Dry mouth (xerostomia): Reduced saliva production leads to an increase in bacteria.
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Systemic causes:
Sinusitis, tonsil stones, and chronic tonsillitis.
Gastroesophageal reflux, stomach ulcer (H. pylori)
Diabetes (acetone odor), liver and kidney failure.
How to Identify the Source of Bad Breath?
A practical test: Close your lips tightly and exhale only through your nose. If you can smell the odor in your nose, the source is most likely a throat, sinus, or systemic problem. If the odor comes only from the mouth, an oral cause should be investigated.
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath? Treatment and Prevention Methods
Brush your teeth twice a day for 2 minutes using the correct technique.
Regular brushing of the tongue (especially the back part)
Use dental floss and interdental brushes once a day.
Regular gargling with antibacterial mouthwash (duration of use should be determined by a doctor)
Drink plenty of water and prevent dry mouth.
Increasing saliva flow with sugar-free peppermint gum
Dental scaling and check-ups every 6 months.
If there is gum disease, cavities, or root canal problems, these should be treated first.
Prosthesis users should opt for special prosthesis brushes and cleaning tablets.