More Symptoms of Bad Breath

Bad breath is a condition in which an individual produces an unpleasant odor from their nasal or oral regions. For some, normal oral hygiene techniques will not solve it. Halitosis is another term that is used for bad breath.

Symptoms

• It is common for people with bad breath to have a white or yellow coat on their tongues. This is caused by an accumulation of bacterium and mucous. Individuals with bad breath may also notice bitter, sour, or metallic tastes in their mouths. Another symptom of bad breath is dry mouth. Having less saliva in the mouth can cause more bacterium to accumulate.

Causes

• One cause of bad breath is sinus drainage due to the fact that it causes mucous to drain from the sinus regions into the rear region of the throat. Eating certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can also cause temporary bad breath. Poor dental hygiene may also be a cause.

Diagnosis

• Self-diagnosis of bad breath can be done by licking your wrist, let it dry for a couple of seconds, and then smell the area. It can also be done by just cupping your hands over your mouth and sniffing your breath.

Risk Factors

• Having persistent bad breath may be a sign of another health problem. One of the symptoms of gum disease is bad breath. Some other medical conditions that are associated with bad breath include diabetes, acid reflux, and bronchitis. Consult a dentist if the bad breath persists.

Prevention

• Brush and floss twice daily to prevent bad breath from occurring. Chewing sugar-free gum helps prevent dry mouth because it stimulates saliva production. Using antibacterial mouthwash can help as well.