Diagnosis
People who suffer from bad breath often do not even notice it themselves. This fact is due to the fact that the sense of smell is subject to a certain adaptation mechanism. The human sense of smell usually responds only to changes in the concentration of fragrances.
However, since the concentration of fragrances in bad breath is largely constant, the odor-sensitive receptors in the nose are only partially aware of it. In most cases, it is the direct environment of the patient that provides an initial indication of the presence of bad smelling halitosis. However, bad breath can be scientifically proven by special tests.
In medical practice, measuring devices can be used which are capable of measuring the sulfur content in the exhaled air. It is easier to confirm the suspicion of bad breath by a quick test that can be done at home.
- Back of the hand test: In a first step, the affected person should wet the back of his hand with saliva and let it dry.
Then the back of the hand must be breathed on. In the presence of a bad breath problem, bad smells can be detected in the area of the back of the hand.
- Further test: The moreover one a second test offers a good statement force over the presence of bad breath. The affected person folds his hands as if in prayer.
Between the two hands a cavity should be formed in the connection and brought this close to the lips. Afterwards it is necessary to breathe strongly into this hollow space. With the nose you can then check whether bad breath is present.
- Airbag test: The so-called airbag test is also considered a reliable method for detecting bad breath.
During this test, the patient breathes into a sufficiently large plastic bag that is as odourless as possible. The bag size should be at least 500ml. Afterwards, a well-ventilated room should be visited and the bag filled with breath should be pressed out slowly in front of the nose.
- Cotton swab/plastic spoon test: The cotton swab or plastic spoon test is one of the simplest ways to check the exhaled air for unpleasant odors.
A cotton swab is rolled over the back of the tongue (facing the palate) with light pressure. Alternatively, part of the coating of the tongue can be removed with a plastic spoon. After the sample has dried for about 30 seconds, an odour test can be performed.
A metal spoon is not suitable for this halitosis test.
- Saliva Test: This test requires the collection of approximately 2ml of saliva in a small glass. After the jar has been closed with a lid for 3 minutes, the odour sample can be performed.
Since bad breath in itself is not a disease, but only one symptom of many possible illnesses, with the exception of bad breath caused by food and beverages, it is not possible to take special prophylaxis against bad breath. Only the elimination of the triggering causes can eliminate bad breath and prevent its recurrence.
The avoidance of garlic and onions as well as the consumption of alcohol and smoking, of course also avoids bad breath, thus also represents a prophylaxis. The question what can be done against the development of bad breath cannot be answered easily in all cases. If a systemic cause should lie to reason, then it is usually necessary a purposeful treatment of the causal illness to introduce.
For most local reasons that lead to the development of bad breath, there are, however, tools that can be applied relatively easily. The most important precaution with regard to the annoying bad breath is regular oral hygiene. This depends not only on the quantity (frequency), but also on the quality (care) of brushing your teeth.
Basically, teeth should be brushed before going to bed, after breakfast (or getting up) and after lunch. In the morning and at lunchtime, simple tooth brushing is usually sufficient to prevent bad breath, but in the evening a little more time should be invested in oral hygiene. To remove even the smallest food residues and plaque deposits in the oral cavity, it is recommended to use interdental space brushes or dental floss in addition to the toothbrush.
This also reduces the risk of inflammation of the gums and/or the periodontium.Since countless bacteria that can cause bad breath also settle on the back of the tongue, it is recommended to clean the back of the tongue at least once a day. Special mouth rinsing solutions can be used additionally. These solutions should be used about 2-3 times in a row and left in the oral cavity for at least 30 seconds each time.
Since the development of bad breath is often based on the drying of the oral mucosa, special liquids can be used as a preventive measure. Because of the dry mucous membranes, the bacteria inside the oral cavity cannot be removed or can only be removed insufficiently and lead to the development of bad odors. The application of these special liquids moistens the mucous membranes.
Regular chewing of chewing gums also stimulates the formation of saliva and is therefore an effective prophylactic measure. Patients who suffer from frequent bad breath should change their diet. Strong smelling foods should be avoided as far as possible. Garlic and onions, or the ingredients they contain, stimulate the formation of malodorous gases and thus promote the development of bad breath.
