HALITOSIS/BAD BREATH: WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW | Dr. Yeibake Weriwoyingipre Silver

The medical terminology for offensive mouth odour or bad breath is halitosis. It is an embarrassing but often not a medically serious condition that affects between 22 to 50% of the human population globally. 

Despite its usual medically benign nature, it can have a significant negative impact on self-esteem and social interactions. 

Severe halitosis, which may require medical intervention, is not common. 

Halitosis is generally caused by the release of volatile organic compounds from the interaction between bacteria and the food and beverages we consume. Several high-quality studies have shown that up to 90 per cent of cases are due to bacterial action on food particles trapped on the tongue, teeth, and gums. 

The risk factors include poor oral hygiene, dehydration, certain foods (onions, garlic, other spices, coffee), dry fasting, skipping meals, tobacco, tonsil stones, infections (of the nose, sinuses, gums and throat and lungs), certain diseases like diabetes mellitus, neck cancers and gastroesophageal reflux, and some drugs that reduce saliva production or can be broken down into volatile compounds (disulfiram, nitrates, metformin, ozempic, diuretics, antipsychotics, antidepressants).

Thankfully, most cases of halitosis can be effectively managed and prevented by doing the following: 

• Maintaining good oral hygiene 
• Staying hydrated 
• Using mouthwash
• Mindfulness with dietary choices
• Avoiding/Quitting smoking 
• Regular dental check-up

If halitosis persists, despite the steps above being taken, the patient should kindly seek professional help for proper evaluation and management. 

Dr. Yeibake Weriwoyingipre Silver