Causes of bad breath in women
Bad breath is caused by various factors that can come from both inside the mouth and from other parts of the body. The most common causes include:
Poor oral hygiene : Inadequate brushing and flossing can lead to the accumulation of food particles and bacteria that cause unpleasant odors.
Dietary habits : Eating strong-smelling foods such as garlic, onions and certain spices can cause temporary bad breath. High-protein, low-carbohydrate diets can also play a role.
Dry mouth (xerostomia) : Saliva helps clean the mouth and flush out bacteria. A lack of saliva, often caused by dehydration or certain medications, can lead to bad breath.
Oral diseases : Gum disease, tooth infections or tooth decay can also cause bad breath.
Systemic diseases : Some diseases such as diabetes, kidney or liver disease, and respiratory diseases can cause bad breath.
Bad breath during pregnancy
Data from scientific studies show that pregnancy is associated with a higher likelihood of suffering from dental disease, dry mouth and, most importantly, bad breath. Pregnancy brings with it numerous physical changes that can also affect oral health. These changes can cause bad breath or make existing bad breath worse. Here are some reasons:
Hormonal changes : During pregnancy, the levels of certain hormones such as estrogen and progesterone rise sharply. These hormonal changes can make the gums more sensitive and prone to inflammation (pregnancy gingivitis), which in turn can cause bad breath.
Morning sickness and vomiting : Many pregnant women experience morning sickness and vomiting, especially in the first trimester. Stomach acid entering the mouth can attack teeth and cause bad breath. Frequent vomiting can also reduce saliva flow and dry out the mouth, further aggravating the problem.
Changes in saliva flow : Some pregnant women notice a change in saliva production. Dry mouth can be exacerbated by hormonal fluctuations or dehydration, thus contributing to bad breath.
Dietary changes : Food cravings and changes in eating habits during pregnancy can also play a role. Sweets or foods high in sugar encourage bacterial growth in the mouth and can therefore cause bad breath.
Bad breath can not only be physically unpleasant, but also psychologically stressful. Many women feel insecure because of bad breath and avoid social interactions. Bad breath can cause additional stress, especially during pregnancy, a time that is already accompanied by many emotional and physical changes.
Prevention and Treatment of Bad Breath During Pregnancy
There are several steps women, especially pregnant women, can take to prevent or treat bad breath.
Good oral hygiene : Regular brushing (at least twice a day) and flossing are essential. An antibacterial mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria.
Hydration : Drinking enough water is especially important to promote saliva flow and keep the mouth moist.
Dietary habits : A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce bad breath. Sugary and strong-smelling foods should be enjoyed in moderation.
Regular dental visits : Pregnant women should schedule regular dental examinations to detect and treat gum disease early.
Natural remedies : Chewing sugar-free gum can stimulate saliva production. Chewing on fresh herbs such as parsley or mint can also help freshen breath.
Probiotics and Bad Breath
A promising approach to treating bad breath is the use of probiotics that can positively influence the oral microbiome. One specific probiotic that is receiving special attention is Streptococcus salivarius . This bacterium is naturally present in the human mouth and plays an important role in maintaining a healthy oral microbiome. As a so-called leading germ in the human mouth, it is the dominant bacterium in the mouth very early in our lives and is responsible for ensuring that the oral microbiome is in balance and harmful bacteria are pushed back. Studies have shown that Streptococcus salivarius can help reduce the populations of odor-causing bacteria. It produces bacteriocins that inhibit the growth of harmful microorganisms, thus shifting the oral flora in favor of the "good" bacteria. This helps to reduce bad breath in the long term and gently and promote general oral health. Regular intake of probiotics containing Streptococcus salivarius could therefore be an effective, natural addition to traditional oral hygiene measures to combat halitosis. Studies have shown that the probiotic strain Streptococcus salivarius M18 in particular can be used effectively against bad breath. It is therefore worth looking out for probiotics that contain the probiotic strain Streptococcus salivarius M18 .
Conclusion
Bad breath is a common problem that affects women as much as men. During pregnancy, hormonal changes, morning sickness, and changes in eating habits can increase the risk of bad breath. However, women can effectively combat bad breath by practicing good oral hygiene, drinking enough fluids, making conscious eating choices, and having regular dental checkups. It is important to discuss this issue openly to encourage sufferers to seek help and take steps to improve their oral health and overall well-being. Fortunately, there are probiotic strains that can be used effectively to treat bad breath and can eliminate the problem in a long-term and gentle way.
