The Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath, also called halitosis, is caused by poor oral hygiene or another type of oral malady. It may also caused by your food intake or unhealthy daily activities. The bacteria that develops in your mouth generally produces bad breath. Each person’s breath will depend on various factors, and each may contribute to having bad breath.
- Poor Oral Hygiene: Foods are broken down in tiny particles as you eat. If you don’t brush or floss your teeth regularly, these tiny particles will stay in your mouth, eventually causing bacteria to form on your teeth, gums and tongue. Dentures should also be cleaned regularly, as this may also cause bacteria build up in your mouth.
- Health Problems: Periodontal disease is a major cause of bad breath. Bacteria and plaque causes gum disease, which may harm the whole mouth and jaw if left untreated. Other serious diseases like cancer, liver and kidney failures, diabetes, and many others can also cause bad breath. The bad odor may come from the liver or other internal organs due to the chemicals and other drugs that may produce an unpleasant smell. Other medical problems like GERD, high blood pressure, respiratory, and gastrointestinal problems have also been linked with bad breath.
- Food: The food that you eat may also contribute to bad breath. Foods with strong odors like garlic and onion may leave a smell in your mouth causing bad breath. When digested, particles of these foul-odored foods are absorbed in your body through the bloodstream, it will be carried to your body including the lungs that produces the air you breath.
- Unhealthy lifestyle: Smoking is a big factor that causes bad breath. Too much smoking causes dry mouth, which leads to mouth odor. Smokers are also prone to periodontal disease, one of the main causes of bad breath. The tar and nicotine also attaches to your teeth, tongue, cheeks and gums and can also contribute to bad breath.
Bad breath can be prevented or reduced through good oral hygiene. Brushing your teeth on a regular basis and flossing can prevent bacteria build up. It is also best to see your dentist at least twice a year for a proper dental cleaning. Drinking water frequently will keep your mouth moist and avoid eating unhealthy foods. Avoiding cigarettes is good to prevent bad breath.
What To Do About Bad Breath
Halitosis, or “bad breath” as it’s more commonly known, is an age old problem. It can cause embarrassment for both the person speaking, and the one being spoken to. This can cause unnecessary social awkwardness, and can be a hindrance in professional situations. Learning the causes of bad breath will go a long way toward prevention.
- Waking up – The flow of saliva comes to a near standstill during sleep. So does it’s cleansing ability, which causes bacteria to grow. These bacteria cause bad breath.
- Certain types of food – Food like garlic and onions possess odor-causing properties which enter the blood stream. From there, they go to the lungs and are exhaled.
- Poor oral hygiene – Any food remaining in the mouth is a fertile breeding ground for bacteria.
- Periodontal disease – The condition that is Periodontal disease, inflamed gums, is caused by the presence of food debris and bacteria under the gums.
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) – Medications, salivary gland problems or constant mouth breathing can cause dry mouth, leading to bacterial buildup.
- Tobacco use – Tobacco products dry out the mouth, which leads to the growth of bacteria.
- Dieting - As the body burns fat, chemicals, called ketones, are released in the breath.
- Dehydration and hunger – Saliva flow is increased by drinking water and chewing food. The saliva washes away bacteria.
Stopping any habits that dry out the mouth is a good way to combat bad breath. Also, using correct brushing and flossing technique will remove any food from the mouth that can cause periodontal disease and bad breath.