What is Bad Breath (halitosis)?

Bad breath or halitosis is smell in the mouth or breath that is caused by a bacteria.

Symptoms of Bad Breath (halitosis)

• Gums bleed, mouth experiences bad taste and breath exhaled is accompanied with bad odor.

Causes of Bad Breath (halitosis)

• Presence of food particles around the mouth activates bacteria and creates foul smelling gases.
• Inflammation of the gums, dry mouth, mouthwashes with alcoholic content; foods like onion and garlic.
• Gastrointestinal or respiratory disorders, liver or kidney ailment, chronic bronchitis or sinusitis and diabetes are other factors..

Home remedies for Bad Breath (halitosis)

1. Drink at-least 8 glasses of water a day, to ward off foul smelling (bacteria) breath.
2. Get your teeth examined and cleaned periodically. People with dentures should soak it in an antiseptic solution overnight.
3. Scrub gums and roof of your mouth, when you brush your teeth after every meal. Your tongue too has to be cleaned with plastic scraper. And at-least once a day spaces between your teeth should be cleaned.

How can one prevent Bad Breath (halitosis)

1. Give up smoking.
2. Avoid foods that cause bad breath like garlic, onions and anything containing alcohol.