We went over a number of the prevailing causes of bad breath in our previous update, but in this update, we'll consider a few of the more serious health conditions which could be behind halitosis. In the case that your persistent halitosis doesn't improve with a solid oral hygiene regimen, it might just be a sign of a more severe issue.
Health conditions that contain halitosis as a symptom include:
- Strep throat (or various other throat problems).
- Decay
- Gum disease
- Oral or throat cancer
- Food particles caught in tonsils
- A root canal that has become infected
- Liver disease
- Diabetes
- HIV
- Acid reflux
- Lung infections
- Lung disease
- Medication
While these are all likelihoods, bad breath is most often just because of poor oral hygiene; in particular too little flossing. In order to help minimize the risk of halitosis, your oral maintenance regimen should include daily flossing, as well as brushing the teeth, tongue, gums, and top of your mouth two times each day. Using mouthwash will also help provide short-term relief for halitosis.
Is bad breath something you struggle with?
In the event that you have worries concerning your bad breath, don't forget to consult with Dr. Sachs at our office in Rockford.