The History and Causes of Halitosis: From Marketing Scheme to Oral Health

TLDR Halitosis, or bad breath, was created as a marketing scheme by Listerine mouthwash to prey on people's insecurities. However, the root cause of bad breath lies in bacteria and food particles in the mouth, which can be addressed through proper oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, tongue scraping, and using mouthwash that removes food particles.

Timestamped Summary

00:00 The episode is about the history of the term "halitosis" and how it was created as a marketing scheme by the makers of Listerine mouthwash.
04:19 The term "halitosis" was created as a marketing scheme by the makers of Listerine mouthwash to prey upon people's low self-esteem and make them feel bad about their breath.
08:14 Halitosis is caused by bacteria in the mouth breaking down substances and producing gases, similar to how armpits can smell.
12:27 Bacteria in the mouth break down food particles and emit sulfuric gases, causing bad breath, and dry mouth can worsen the problem.
16:28 Liver problems can cause "mousy breath," while being in ketosis can lead to fruity-smelling breath due to the burning of ketones.
20:52 Chronic halitosis, or bad breath, affects about 25% of people, and while breath mints provide temporary relief, the root of the problem lies in bacteria and food particles in the mouth, which can be addressed by brushing, flossing, tongue scraping, and using mouthwash that loosens food particles rather than kills bacteria.
25:04 Maintaining a healthy oral ecosystem with beneficial bacteria and addressing food particles through brushing, flossing, tongue scraping, and using mouthwash that removes food particles rather than kills bacteria can help combat bad breath.
29:10 Eating a crunchy breakfast can help clear out food particles, and a homemade mouthwash with cinnamon, honey, and warm water can be a good alternative to antibacterial mouthwash.
33:46 The hosts discuss their April Fool's prank and the reaction from listeners, including one person who was genuinely upset by the prank.
37:17 The hosts express their gratitude for the positive response to their April Fool's prank and mention their presence on social media.
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