It’s the little things that tell you that you must be suffering from bad breath. People turn their heads when they speak to you or move back a little when you speak. It can actually take a toll on your self-esteem and confidence.

Although everyone experiences having bad breath at some point in time, for some people it may be a constant struggle. Sometimes people may not even be aware they have bad breath or halitosis.

So what exactly is bad breath? Halitosis or bad breath is caused by bacteria that live on the tongue’s surface. When these sulfur-producing bacteria break down proteins rapidly and release noxious-smelling volatile sulfur compounds in your mouth and throat.

What are some signs and symptoms of bad breath?

The signs of halitosis include the following:

Dry mouth
White coating on the tongue, particularly at the back of the tongue
Post-nasal drip or mucus
Morning bad breath and burning tongue
Needing to clear one’s throat constantly
Thick Saliva
Sour and bitter metallic taste

If you suspect that you have bad breath, you may feel self-conscious. You can ask someone close to you or that you trust to take a peek inside your mouth and check for a white coating on the back of the tongue. This is often a sign of bacteria causing bad breath.

It’s always best to consult your dental professional, they can assist you in checking for the cause of the bad breath and talk with you about creating a more consistent oral health hygiene routine.