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CAUSES OF BAD BREATH
Bad breath is usually caused by the breakdown of proteins by bacteria in the mouth. These naturally occurring bacteria feeds on proteins and produces volatile sulfur compounds (VSC) which is the cause of the odour. If you don’t brush and floss your teeth daily, food particles can remain in your mouth, promoting bacteria growth causing breath to smell.
Smoking and sinus conditions also contribute to bad breath. Dental causes include: poorly fitting dental appliances, gum disease, abscessed teeth, plaque accumulation, yeast infections of the mouth and tooth decay.
The medical condition dry mouth (xerostomia) can cause bad breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten and cleanse the mouth by neutralizing acids produced by plaque and washing away dead cells that accumulate in the mouth. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. Dry mouth may also be caused by various medications, salivary gland problems, or continuous breathing through the mouth.
Practice good oral hygiene. Brush teeth and tongue twice a day after you eat with fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. Use floss or an interdental cleaner to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth once a day. Use a mouthwash before sleeping. Dentures should be removed at night and cleaned thoroughly before being placed in your mouth the next morning. Drink lots of water to keep your mouth moist. Chewing sugarless gum also stimulates the production of saliva, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria. You could also use Triple Complex HaliTonic to counter bad breath.
Tags: bad breath, halitosis, health, healthy lifestyle, nutritional supplements
