How to deal with bad breath from a young age
Disease description:
I have had bad breath since childhood, and there's no significant improvement even after brushing my teeth. Sometimes I even feel a bitter taste in my mouth. I'm worried that this may indicate an underlying health issue. How should I go about getting checked and improving this condition?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
For individuals who have had bad breath since childhood, possible causes may include poor oral hygiene habits, dental diseases (such as cavities, periodontal disease), thick tongue coating, dry mouth, digestive system disorders, respiratory infections, or systemic diseases (such as diabetes).
Firstly, oral hygiene should be improved by regular teeth cleaning, brushing with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and using mouthwash when necessary. At the same time, maintaining adequate water intake to promote saliva production and prevent dry mouth is important.
Certain oral conditions, such as cavities and gingivitis, as well as gastrointestinal diseases like chronic gastritis and peptic ulcers, may also cause bad breath. If related symptoms exist, timely medical consultation is recommended to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment. Regular dental cleanings to remove dental calculus and plaque can effectively reduce bad breath. Quitting smoking and limiting alcohol consumption are also effective methods for improving breath odor, as tobacco and alcohol can worsen the problem.
Addressing chronic bad breath from childhood requires a comprehensive approach involving improvements in oral hygiene, dietary habits, and lifestyle to achieve the goal of reducing or eliminating bad breath.
