The first step we are going to take before delving fully into the meaning of halitosis is to know its etymological origin. In this case, we can emphasize that it is a word that derives from Latin and Greek. And it is the result of the sum of these two components:
-The Latin noun "halitus", which can be translated as "breath" or "exhalation" and which derives from the verb "halare", which is synonymous with "exhale".
-The suffix «-osis», which is used to indicate processes.
Halitosis is bad breath : that is, foul breath , with an unpleasant odor. It is a disorder that affects many people and is usually linked to the presence of bacteria .
To understand what halitosis is, we must first be clear about the concept of breath . This is the name given to the air that is expelled through the mouth . It is important to keep in mind that, during breathing, the body incorporates oxygen and emits carbon dioxide: the air that is exhaled through the mouth is the breath.
Breath usually does not have a noticeable odor. However, in some cases, it acquires a stench that can be easily perceived. This nauseating breath characterizes the clinical sign called halitosis.
Those who suffer from halitosis, therefore, have bad-smelling breath . The cause of this odor is usually due to the presence of bacteria in the mouth, although it can also be linked to diseases such as gastritis or lung cancer .
One of the most common causes of halitosis is poor oral hygiene . When food remains remain in the mouth, bacteria appear to break them down and produce various odorous components, such as different fatty acids.
However, the existence of other causes that can lead to halitosis should not be overlooked either. We are referring to the consumption of tobacco and alcohol, having bacterial plaque in the mouth, taking certain medications, eating foods that have a strong odor such as garlic or onion, suffering from kidney diseases or even of the liver...
To avoid or treat halitosis, therefore, it is important to take care of oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth after each meal, using mouthwashes with antiseptics and flossing are essential actions. It is also recommended to drink plenty of water to increase saliva production and avoid coffee , alcohol, tobacco and foods with intense odors.
In the same way, other measures to combat halitosis are to periodically go to the dentist to have your teeth cleaned or carry out a proper tongue cleaning.
However, we cannot ignore the fact that there are also home tricks to combat this bad mouth odor problem. We are referring to some such as rinsing your mouth with lemon juice in the morning, biting parsley, drinking a glass of apple cider vinegar before going to bed or brushing your teeth in the morning with baking soda.