Halitosis Treatment

A Fresh Breath Begins with a Healthy Mouth
Bad breath (halitosis) is a common problem that negatively affects both personal and social life. While temporary bad breath may result from hunger, smoking, or certain foods, persistent bad breath can be a sign of an underlying oral health issue.

The most common causes include tooth decay, gum disease, bacterial buildup on the tongue, and poor oral hygiene. To eliminate persistent and unpleasant odors, a professional evaluation by a dentist is essential.

Causes of Bad Breath

• Tooth decay and old fillings

• Gum diseases (gingivitis, periodontitis)

• Bacterial plaque on the tongue

• Poor oral hygiene

• Dry mouth (lack of saliva)

• Smoking and alcohol consumption

• Hunger and irregular eating habits

• Digestive system disorders

• Upper respiratory infections such as sinusitis or tonsillitis

How Is Bad Breath Diagnosed?
During a dental examination, the dentist will:

• Check gum health

• Evaluate tooth decay and old fillings

• Examine tongue hygiene

• Perform an oral microorganism analysis if necessary

• Refer to a specialist if a systemic condition is suspected

Treatment Methods for Bad Breath

1. Professional Dental Cleaning (Scaling)
   Dental plaque and tartar buildup are major causes of bad breath. A professional cleaning removes these deposits.

2. Treatment of Tooth Decay and Replacement of Fillings
   Decayed teeth are treated, and leaking or old fillings are renewed.

3. Treatment of Gum Diseases
   Advanced gum diseases are treated to eliminate inflammatory sources in the mouth.

4. Tongue Cleaning
   Specially designed tongue brushes or scrapers are used to ensure tongue hygiene.

5. Managing Dry Mouth
   Drinking plenty of water, chewing sugar-free gum, and using saliva-stimulating products are recommended.

6. Mouth Rinses and Oral Hygiene Education
   The use of antibacterial mouthwashes and proper brushing techniques reinforce oral hygiene.

7. Identifying Underlying Systemic Causes
   If bad breath is linked to reflux, diabetes, or kidney failure, the patient is referred for medical evaluation.

Can Bad Breath Be Prevented?
Yes! Most cases of bad breath can be prevented through simple oral hygiene habits:

• Brushing teeth at least twice a day

• Using dental floss or interdental brushes once a day

• Cleaning the tongue regularly

• Drinking plenty of water

• Using mouthwash

• Visiting the dentist every six months

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is bad breath only caused by teeth?
   No. It often originates in the mouth, but systemic issues like stomach, sinus, or liver problems can also be responsible.

2. Will I have bad breath if I don’t use dental floss?
   Yes. Food particles stuck between teeth can cause odor if not cleaned properly.

3. Is tongue cleaning really necessary?
   Absolutely. Bacterial buildup on the tongue is one of the main sources of bad breath.

4. Can mouthwash completely eliminate bad breath?
   It can temporarily mask the odor, but lasting results require treating the underlying cause.

5. Which doctor should I see for bad breath?
   Start by visiting a dentist. If necessary, you may be referred to an ENT or gastroenterologist.