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What is Halitosis- Is there a Cure? |
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Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is a common problem that can cause embarrassment to all that are suffering from it. Halitosis usually arises from rotting food particles that have remained stuck in your mouth because of irregular or improper brushing and flossing of the teeth. Halitosis can not only cause a foul smelling breath, but if the condition is allowed to remain unchecked, it can give rise to harmful bacteria in your mouth and cause gum diseases such as gingivitis.
It is important to remember that there are certain foods and drinks that have a naturally strong or pungent odor that can also contribute to bad breath. Garlic, onions, cheese, spices, orange juice, and soda are some examples of food items can have a tendency to produce bad breath in the mouth.
Halitosis may also occur due to certain infections or diseases that a person may be suffering from. Sinusitis, severe lung diseases, liver or kidney infections, and diabetes are some of the common diseases that have the potential to cause bad breath in certain patients. Periodontal diseases are also likely to cause halitosis in many cases. Smokers are also more prone to having this problem compared to non-smokers.
Periodic visits to the dentist and thorough brushing and flossing of teeth regularly can help to keep the problem of halitosis under control. Sometimes the dentist may be able to point out if the bad breath is being caused by any medications that the patient may be taking.
A chronic problem of halitosis can also be cured in most cases by following a few simple steps as listed below:
1. Brush, floss and clean your mouth thoroughly at least three times a day. Clean your tongue with a tongue-cleaner. Clean the tongue starting from the back of the throat, and reaching up to the tip in the front. Repeat the process a few times carefully till any food particles or mucus residue is removed completely.
2. Get yourself examined by a dentist. Your dentist may recommend that you to visit your physician to look for any other ailment or infection that may be developing inside your body, and causing this chronic problem of halitosis.
3. A mix of baking soda and peroxide is considered to be an effective treatment for halitosis. If you chew a few sprigs of parsley after a meal, it may also help to control bad breath.
4. In most cases, good oral hygiene practices, a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle are keys to preventing and curing a common problem like halitosis.
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