Although bad breath is not taken seriously, it negatively affects the life of the person and the environment. It causes discomfort in daily activities. If you have bad breath that you think will go away but have been around for a long time, you should definitely see a doctor. Bad breath, which is usually caused by mouth, tongue, tooth and stomach problems, can cause diseases you never knew existed. Ear Nose and Throat Diseases Specialist Assoc. Dr. Yavuz Selim Yıldırım gave information about bad breath.
MAY CAUSE CANCER
It is necessary to approach bad breath as a multidisciplinary approach. First of all, the Otorhinolaryngology Specialist should evaluate, and the Dentist and Gastroenterology Specialist should also examine the patient. Persistent bad odor that did not occur before and afterward may be a symptom of various cancers such as stomach cancer, liver cancer, throat cancer and tongue root cancer.
BACTERIA CAUSES ODOR
Common causes of bad breath other than cancer are; Dryness of the mouth and throat area due to the mouth breathing of people with blocked nose and bad breath due to the increase of bacteria in this area, bad breath caused by bacteria accumulated in the root of the tongue, problems related to teeth and gums, intense nasal discharge, throat infections, stone formation in the tonsils, alcohol- smoking-tobacco use, diabetes and kidney diseases, side effects of some drugs and insufficient fluid intake.
HOW DOES ODOR TREATMENT WORK?
First of all, the reason must be found and various tests can be done for this. The source of the odor should be investigated. If the source of the odor cannot be determined, chronic sinusitis infections, chronic tonsil infections, chronic stomach problems and chronic dental and gum diseases should be checked one by one. If necessary, a detailed gastroenterological examination should be performed, and endoscopy can be considered if the odor persists despite treatment at the appropriate time and dose. Dental and gingival disorders and bruises that may cause them, bridges, prostheses should be corrected.
WHAT SHOULD HEALTHY PEOPLE DO TO REMOVE ODOR?
Drink plenty of water
Smoking and alcohol use should be abandoned
Teeth should be brushed daily
Avoid foods that smell
The tongue should be brushed with the soft side of the toothbrush.
Avoid foods that cause reflux
Shouldn’t be hungry for long