Bad Breath

Alternate Names : Halitosis, Fetor Oris

What can be done to prevent the symptom?

Prevention of bad breath starts with good oral hygiene. People should brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and floss teeth daily. Removable dentures should be taken out at night, cleaned, and soaked overnight. Mouthwash is not an effective treatment for bad breath, since it hides the real cause. Mouthwash can also irritate the tissue in the mouth. Mouthwash and breath mints are only temporary solutions and may mask more serious problems. Also, some breath mints may contain sugars, which can cause cavities.

Someone in good health may have bad breath at times, such as in the morning after a long sleep. However, a person with persistent bad breath should see a healthcare professional.

What are the long-term effects of the disease?

Bad breath itself has no long-term effects. However, underlying disease, such as diabetes, can cause significant problems if it goes untreated.

What are the risks to others?

Bad breath is not contagious and poses no risk to others. However, an underlying disorder such as AIDS may be highly contagious.