Halitosis or bad breath is not simply related to poor oral hygiene but can be a manifestation of infection in the respiratory tract, sinusitis, post nasal drip, bronchitis or even diabetes.

Dr. Shakil Bashir, a senior physician discussing the subject with APP said bad breath an unpleasant condition that causes embarrassment can be due to varied factors.

He urged people not to overlook the condition and a qualified dentist as well as doctor must be consulted to ascertain exact cause of bad breath.

The senior physician also strongly suggested need to improve oral hygiene, under all conditions, with focus on brushing the teeth twice a day and removal of food particles as well as plaque. "What person eats affects the air they exhale and that certain foods such as garlic and onions contribute to objectionable breath odor," he said and cited it as the commonest cause for the condition.

Food remains between the teeth, on the tongue and around the gums, can rot leaving an unpleasant odor, he added. Bad breath, the doctor mentioned can also be caused by dry mouth resulted by various medications, salivary gland problems or continuous breathing through the mouth.

Dr. Shakil Bashir said in reply to a question said, tobacco products and paan were among significant causes for halitosis among considerable population of the country.

People in general were advised to also brush their tongue while brushing their teeth. Application of floss or an inter dental cleaner to clean between teeth once a day was also recommended.

The doctor clarified that mouthwashes have a cosmetic effect and
were no remedy for bad breath.