Bad breath is a common problem that affects most of the adult population at some time or the other. The number one cause for this is bacteria. There are many remedies, which help to freshen breath. Read on to learn what you can do to keep bad breath at bay.

WHAT CAUSES BAD BEATH?

Bad breath has several different causes.



1) It can be caused by external factors such as food, alcohol, cigarettes, etc.
2) It is commonly caused by bacterial degradation of proteins and peptides in the oral cavity.
3) It can be caused by certain medical conditions realted to certain disease

The most common cause of bad breath is the formation of certain unpleasant volatile sulphur compounds (VSC) that are formed by action of bacteria found on the teeth, guns and tongue. Infect, the main causative factor is often found to be the bacteria present at the back of the tongue. Sometimes, it is even common to find bad breath in children, caused because of poor tongue cleaning.

Diet also plays an important role. Garlic and onions can add o the problem . Antoerh common reason for bad breath The next table shows at a glance, what can increase and decrease unpleasant mouth odors

WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT BAD BREATH?

» The first step is to ensure that you have no gum problem and that your mouth is clean.
» Brush twice dialy with a good quality toothpaste as this helps to freshen the breath. Use a good quality toothbrush to
   effectively remove stuck food particles.
» Clean your tongue regularly. The tongue has food debris and bacterial colonies, which cause bad breath. Gentle but
   effective deep tongue cleaning with the toothbrush is comfortable for almost everyone.
» - Keep a check on the food that you eat. Try to cut down your intake of odour causing food items such as

Garlic and onions

Get a professional cleaning done every 6-12 months, as this helps to remove deposits in those hard to reach areas such as below your gun line and behind your last teeth, giving you a thorugh clean and helping to keep yhour gums healthy.

Your dentist may advise you to use a medicated mouthrinse for a limited period. Rinsing with these mouthrinses at night often gives the best results.

If you wear dentures, take them out at night. Remember to clean the surfaces of the denture that sit against your gums and palate. Be especially careful to clean areas around caps and large deposits. filling as these trap food