[IMAGE SOURCE: fermeliadental.com]
Look, I know how hard it is to talk about it. Maybe its because of the fact that the sound of it feels irritating or it isn't just a thing to be spoken about. But, let's face it. Ironically, we forget to realize that its the 'chief organ' of speech we are talking about here, so why not talk about it?
M.O (mouth odour) as I would like to call it, is a condition that deserves attention to the least of knowing what is it, where the problem lies and how to handle it especially, if you have deep concerns about it. It should never be a thing of "you lack proper hygiene" as the society perceives to be; but a matter of awareness and determination to get a lasting solution as regarding it.
Halitosis as explained by research, is a condition that gradually intensifies as the bacterias in the mouth builds-up.
(Let me point this out, this article is not necessarily speaking of the bad breath gotten from eating foods like that garlic, onion and the rest). Though, they would be a little chip of it in the course of writing this. However, it's basically talking about those unpleasant breath that sticks around even after brushing. Of course, we have heard the saying "brush twice a day to keep a good oral care" from a million and one sources; but how about those that even brush three times a day and still have the 'breath' like its never fading away? I'm here to clear the confusion and to state that this can also be genetically inborn in a person. As surprising as this can sound, here's how it happens genetically.
You see, it all starts with a mutation in the gene, SELENBP1 which in turn leads to the absence of a protein which converts the sulphur compound, 'methanethiol' present in the body at that time. In a nutshell, halitosis is primarily caused by bacteria in the mouth which produces sulphur compounds.
A fact abour sulphur and sulphur compounds that might interest you to know is that pure sulphur has no particular smell but its compounds stinks to the least! It is what gives skunks, rotten eggs, spoilt milk and garlic their 'distinctive' smell. So you can now see the link.
Let's not skip the part that unhealthy snacking can contribute to it; so as the intake of alcohol, garlic, and onions also. Even if we are to consume these products, we definitely should bare in mind that we are to brush properly afterwards and leave no room for bacterias to develop.
More importantly is to use a fluoride toothpaste, pay closer attention to the tongue from tip to bottom while brushing, drink lots of water at regular intervals, eat healthy and incorporate having a little nice mouth wash in our pockets when out for the day's business. Because guess what, even if you are at your best oral hygiene and have had your mouth closed for a long period of time (let's say 30 mins or longer); and finally decides to speak, you are definitely going to drive your audience wild because of the 'smell'. Now you know why a little mouth wash or a minty sweet in your pocket can come in handy.
Till I cross your path some other time, do have a great day with the brightest smile ever. Thanks for your time.
~Uc.