DEFINITION:

Halitosis, commonly known as bad breath, is a condition that can result from poor dental hygiene. It can also be caused by different health problems or worsen with the type of foods ingested (i.e. unhealthy habits).

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SYMPTOMS:

•Bad breath.

TREATMENTS:

•Cleaning of the infected area, removal of bacteria, food and dead cells by the dentist.

•Dental floss and medicated mouth rinse

•In some cases, use of antibiotics.

PREVENTION:

•Stop all use of tobacco.

•Good oral hygiene.

•Brush teeth with antibacterial toothpaste after each meal, and brush the tongue.

•Change toothbrush every two months.

•Floss at least once a day.

•Clean removable prosthetics (dentures of partials) before putting them back in the mouth. Do not wear them during the night.

•Regular dental exams (i.e. at least twice a year).

•Drink a lot of water to keep the mouth moist.

•Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate the production of saliva.

•Use a mouthwash, preferably antibacterial, to eliminate accumulation of bacterium.

SOURCES:     Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia (www.wikipedia.org).

                            WebMD, better information, better health (www.webmd.com).