UNDERSTANDING BAD BREATH AND ITS CAUSES

Bad breath, or halitosis, can be an embarrassing issue, affecting social interactions and self-confidence. While many people turn to gum, mints, or mouthwash for a quick fix, these solutions only mask the odor rather than addressing its root cause. Certain foods, habits, and medical conditions contribute to bad breath, and in many cases, consistent oral care can help eliminate it. However, when home remedies fail to improve the condition, a visit to our dental office is recommended to identify any underlying issues.

COMMON CAUSES OF BAD BREATH

Bad breath can arise from multiple factors, ranging from food choices to medical conditions. Some of the primary causes include:



• Food – The breakdown of food particles in the mouth can cause bacterial buildup and odor. Foods like onions, garlic, and certain spices contribute to bad breath even after digestion, as their byproducts enter the bloodstream and affect breath from the lungs.
• Tobacco Use – Smoking and chewing tobacco not only cause their own unpleasant odor but also increase the risk of gum disease, another leading cause of bad breath.
• Poor Oral Hygiene – Infrequent brushing and flossing allow plaque, bacteria, and food particles to accumulate, leading to odor. Unclean dentures can also harbor bacteria, worsening the problem.
• Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) – Saliva naturally cleanses the mouth, removing odor-causing particles. Reduced saliva production, often due to dehydration, medications, or medical conditions, can contribute to persistent bad breath.
• Medications – Some medications contribute to dry mouth, while others release chemicals into the bloodstream that affect breath odor.
• Infections – Surgical wounds from oral procedures, gum disease, tooth decay, and mouth sores can all lead to bad breath.
• Mouth, Nose, and Throat Conditions – Chronic sinus infections, tonsil stones, or inflammation in the nose, throat, or sinuses can result in persistent bad breath.
• Underlying Medical Conditions – Some diseases, including certain cancers and metabolic disorders, release chemicals that cause distinct odors. GERD (acid reflux) is also associated with chronic bad breath.