Fresh Breath Instead of Halitosis
Most of us don't smell roses when we wake up. However, "dragon's breath" can usually be easily removed by brushing our teeth. If this is not enough and the unpleasant smell remains, medicine distinguishes between two types: halitosis and foetor ex ore. In up to 90% of cases, the causes are local in the oral cavity. This is foetor ex ore and the unpleasant smell is only noticeable when speaking or with the mouth open. However, if it can also be smelled when breathing out through the nose, we are dealing with halitosis.
Aromas indicate causes
The causes of halitosis are more likely to be found in the nasopharynx. A systemic disease is less common, and only in a few cases does bad breath come from the stomach or intestines, e.g. due to a disturbed intestinal flora. During menstruation, pregnancy or the menopause, hormones can even affect breath. In small children, however, the smelly culprit can also be a foreign body that has sunk unnoticed into the nose. Some causes can also be revealed by the smell: a sour bad breath is typical for heartburn and reflux disease. Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus can cause diabetic coma, accompanied by breath that smells of acetone or rotting fruit. If the unpleasant bad breath persists over a longer period of time, it is advisable to go to your GP or dentist. In addition to regular oil pulling, the use of sage tea as a disinfectant mouthwash has proven to be effective for care and prevention. Peppermints and sugary chewing gum are less suitable, because the carbohydrates they contain promote bacterial growth and odor formation
