How To Prevent Bad Breath And What Causes It

It’s most likely down to something you ate or because you haven’t brushed your teeth properly.

But occasionally, particular smells carried on the breath can be caused by a more serious health problem.

Dr Harold Katz, a dentist specializing in bacteriology, says: “Almost all bad breath odors are caused by anaerobic bacteria living in the back of the tongue, throat and tonsils, which break down the proteins in our food as part of their daily job.

“However, when someone isn’t entirely healthy, it can be harder for these bacteria to break down these proteins as they should, leaving ­particular chemical smells behind.”

So if anyone has noticed any of these smells on your breath, it’s definitely worth talking to your dentist or GP.

If your breath smells of…Pear Drops

It could be… diabetes

One of the tell-tale signs of misdiagnosed Type 1 diabetes is the faint smell of pear drops, or ammonia, on the breath. This occurs because a lack of insulin means the body can’t use sugar for energy and starts to break down the fat instead. Waste products called ketones build up and are exhaled.

Freshen up: See your GP for a urine test, particularly if you have excessive thirst, extreme ­tiredness, unexplained weight loss and the need to pass urine more frequently.

If your breath smells of…mothballs

It could be… sinus problems 

People with sinus problems often emit a scent reminiscent of mothballs. Dr Katz, who is also the founder of The Breath Co oral-health products, explains: “This is because the mucus formed when you have a stuffy nose or congested throat contains very dense proteins. It is these proteins, which are hard for the body to break down, that contain that very distinctive odor.”

Freshen up: Try over-the-counter decongestants or see your GP if you think you may have sinusitis

original article EveWoman