Everyone can experience bad breath from time to time. However, if you feel like you're constantly experiencing this condition, it may be something more than just one pungent meal. Halitosis is a medical term that describes chronic bad breath, and your dentist can diagnose it and suggest treatment. Here are a few frequently asked questions about halitosis to better understand its symptoms, effects, and solutions.

A Guide to Halitosis

What is halitosis?

Halitosis is essentially bad breath but on a consistent scale. It lasts past brushing and flossing and can endure for days, weeks, or years. People who have this condition may not be aware of the odor, and it cannot be disguised by mints or gum as easily. Bad breath is often a sign of an underlying issue, which is why you should speak to your dentist if it persists.

What causes it?

Bad breath can come from a lack of good dental hygiene, but it can also be caused by gastrointestinal problems. Smoking, bad dietary habits, chewing tobacco, or poorly measured dentures can all contribute to halitosis. 

If your dentist rules these causes out, it might be an underlying condition like tooth decay or gum disease, which are both more serious issues. 

How can you diagnose bad breath?

It can be hard to tell if you have bad breath, and if others don't tell you, it can go undiagnosed for a while. If you think there might be a problem, there are ways to check before going to a dentist. 

Go to the mirror and stick out your tongue, then check for a yellow or white color on top. Another way to determine bad breath is to lick a small part of your inside wrist. If the lingering smell after isn't ideal, it could be halitosis or poor oral hygiene.

How can you treat it?

The best way to get rid of halitosis is to improve your oral hygiene. Regular brushing and flossing are imperative for a healthy mouth and good breath. Your dentist may scrape the back of the tongue to remove the film that causes bad smells or prescribe mouthwash that fights the bacteria that creates halitosis. Tongue scrapers can also be bought at drug store and used to keep the tongue clean. If there is an underlying medical condition, a dentist can take care of any issues related to your teeth and gums.

If you are concerned about bad breath or have any other dental issues, turn to the experts at Bolivar Family Dental in Polk County, MO. They provide their patients with quality care to ensure good oral health and provide a variety of services for all ages. From preventative care and pediatric appointments to crowns, root canals, and teeth whitening, their treatments will help keep your smile bright year-round. For more information, call (417) 777-8654 or visit their website.