This can be a consequence of

•  Dental decay

• Bacterial breakdown of food, cells and saliva that occurs mainly on the tongue.

•  Alternatively, disease of the oral cavity, respiratory or GI tract can also produce halitosis i.e infection, gastric stasis, colon obstruction or gastroesophageal disease (GORD).

•  Metabolic disorders i.e kidney and liver failure

 

 

Treatment:

 

•  Improve basic oral hygiene

This involves brushing of the teeth twice daily, flossing and tongue cleaning.

Tongue cleaning is the process of using a soft toothbrush or scraper to remove any debris on the tongue as this is the main source of halitosis. This process should be conducted gentle enough to not cause damage on the mucosa of the mouth but yet sufficient to remove coating on the tongue. Finally, it should be followed by rinsing of the mouth on waking and prior to sleep.

 

•  Other methods include smoking cessation, increase fluid intake, regular use of

antibacterial mouthwash (chlorhexidine) or modification of diet such as reducing the

consumption of onions and garlic can be beneficial in management of this symptom.