Poor Oral Hygiene, Most Common Cause of Mouth Odour – Dentist

A dentist, Dr Azeez Oladimeji, has identified poor oral hygiene as the most common cause of bad breathe.
Oladimeji said this on Wednesday in Ibadan.
According to him, while there are other causes of persistent mouth odour, including underlying health conditions, poor oral hygiene remains a major cause in many people.
“Bad breath, also known as oral malodor, is an unpleasant smell coming from the mouth. It can occur occasionally and it can be a chronic condition. There are many causes of mouth odour but the most common is bad oral hygiene and habits. Other factors that can cause persistent mouth odour are food particles left in the mouth, mouth infections or gum diseases, such as gingivitis and periodontitis. Serious medical conditions or diseases, such as some cancers, can also result in persistent mouth odour”.
Although the dentist said mouth odour could be very common, he, however, described it as a treatable condition.
According to him, mouth odour occurs when there is a bacteria build-up as a result of food particles that remained in the mouth and between the teeth.
“In many cases, mouth odour can be reduced with consistent good dental hygiene, including brushing the teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, which will remove food debris and the plaque that causes bacteria build up”.
Oladimeji also stressed the need for replacing toothbrush every two to three months.
“People should also drink lots of water because a dry mouth can cause the mouth to smell. They should equally see their dentists regularly for examination”.