Look at Bad Breath, Learn Your Disease!

Pediatric Dentist Dr. Lecturer Member Şebnem N. Koçan pointed out that bad breath can be a sign of different diseases and said, "There is a smell of acetone in diabetes and ammonia in kidney disease."

Bad Breath: Common in Children and Adults alike!

Bad breath in children and adults is caused by similar reasons. Koçan listed the most important causes of bad breath,

  • Rotten teeth: Decayed teeth are quite common in children, which leads to bad breath.
  • Bacteria on the tongue: Bacteria accumulating on the tongue can also cause bad breath.
  • Gingivitis: Gingivitis is inflammation and bleeding of the gums. This may cause bad breath.
  • Dry mouth: Not producing enough saliva can cause dry mouth and bad breath.

Dehydration, sinusitis, adenoids, reflux, diabetes, kidney disease, digestive system and respiratory system diseases can also cause bad breath. Medications and vitamin deficiency can also cause bad breath.

Different Smells May Be Heard in Some Diseases

  • Acetone smell in diabetes
  • Ammonia smell in kidney disease
  • Fishy smell in liver failure

To Prevent Bad Breath

  • Brush your teeth and tongue regularly.
  • Get your rotten teeth and gingivitis treated, if any.
  • Drink plenty of water.
  • Consume foods that do not cause odor.
  • Use mouthwash.
  • If necessary, be examined by an ear, nose and throat doctor.
  • If bad breath does not go away despite all these procedures, consult a medical doctor.

Junk Foods Also Increase Bad Breath

Junk foods can cause tooth decay, bacterial growth on the tongue and reflux, which are the main causes of bad breath. They may also contain sugar and spices. Therefore, it should not be consumed in excess. Bad breath is a problem that can harm your self-confidence. You can easily solve this problem by paying attention to your oral hygiene and taking the necessary precautions.