Halitosis Symptoms

If you have ever found yourself talking to a group of people who are smiling politely as they attempt to subtly put a bit more space between you, it might be because you suffer from halitosis. It is a chronic condition that many people do not even realize they suffer from until someone attempts to tactfully bring it to their attention. It is a condition that causes an offensive odor to be released from your oral and nasal regions. While there is treatment available, you can't seek it until you know what the symptoms are to diagnose it.

Significance

• Halitosis is not the same thing as morning breath. It has a number of causes, among which are poor dental hygiene, gum disease and food particles that remain stuck in the teeth and gums.

Function

• Halitosis develops in the teeth and gums where bacteria and decaying food particles are found. The odor is a result of the production of a sulfur compound that is formed from the bacteria and food particles.

Symptoms

• Some of the more common symptoms of halitosis are a white or yellow film on the tongue, a bitter or sour taste in the mouth, constant dry mouth and an inability to get rid of the odor with proper brushing and flossing.

Causes

• Halitosis can also be caused by disorders or diseases that are out of a person's control. These include diabetes, liver disease, stress and certain prescription medications.

Prevention/Solution

• There are some things you can do to try and relieve the symptoms of halitosis. These include brushing and flossing regularly, changing your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months, avoiding foods that may get stuck in your teeth and chewing parsley after eating. It contains chlorophyll and can be considered a natural mouthwash.