Halitosis or BAD Breath Has More Than 80 Causes

On this World Oral Health Day we broaden the horizon of a very common and very important condition affecting many people, that is Halitosis and understand the diverse causes and ways to deal with it.

It is estimated that over 25% of the population regularly suffer from bad breath, regardless of gender, age or social class, and that 50% of individuals have at some point been concerned about their breath.

The term Halitosis was coined first time in early 19th Century  (Latin) form “halitus” (exhaled air) with the Greek ending “osis” means disease.

We commonly assume that bad breath is due to dental causes which is not completely true. Let me Classify them as:

1. Oral Causes: Tongue Diseases, Xerostomia (Hyposalivation),Oral Candidiasis, Tonsil Stones, Oral Abscess and Neoplasms.

2. Sinus and Nasal Causes: Rhinosinusitis, Oro Antral Fistula, Nasopharyngeal Abscess, Retropharyngeal Abscess Chronic Adenoiditis, Foreign body in Nose.

3. Respiratory Tract Causes: Bronchitis, Bronchiectasis, Lung Abscess, Pneumonia Carcinoma Lung & Larynx.

4. Digestive Tract Causes: Pharyngeal Diverticulum, Gastritis, H Pylori,Ulcers, Gastric Outlet Obstruction.

5. Systemic Causes: Liver Diseases, Kidney Diseases Diabetes, Prolonged Fasting, Intermittent fevers, Parasitic Interstinal Manifestations.

6.Psychaitric Causes: Halitophobia, Olfactory Reference Syndrome and dysgeusia.

It also affect's relationships and leads to low self esteem.

In extremes of condition there has been reported cases of depression due to bad breath.

• Oral Hygiene
• Limit caffeinated drinks, as well as sugary or acidic juices and replace them with water.
• Sugarless chewing Gums stimulates Saliva production.
• Avoid Sweets immediately before going to bed.
• Get a professional advice and contact your healthcare provider for detailed evaluation and proper diagnosis.