Did you know one out of 4 people experiences bad breath? This can be defined as the persistent unpleasant odor of the exhaled breath. In this article, we dive into the causes of bad breath.

WHAT CAUSES BAD BREATH?

1. Food

Foods with a strong smell can cause bad breath if used constantly. Foods such as garlic, raw onions, cheese, and some spices can cause bad breath. Cutting back on food with strong smells or eating them in moderation can help reduce bad breath.

2. Poor oral hygiene practices

Poor oral hygiene habits can lead to bad breath. If the brushing is not done correctly including brushing the tongue, then food remnants, plaque, tartar, etc. can lead to bad breath. A proper oral hygiene routine includes brushing twice a day and use of dental floss for interdental cleaning.

3. Cavities and gum disease

Any diseases of the oral cavity such as gum diseases, including gingivitis and periodontitis, dental caries, oral ulcers, etc. All these can result in bad breath. It is important to visit the dentist if you’re experiencing any of these symptoms for them to be treated.

4. Dry Mouth

This is a condition called xerostomia. Saliva cleans up the oral cavity from bacteria and left-over food. If left in the mouth it can cause bad breath.  Dry mouth can be caused by several factors such as-; dehydration, salivary gland diseases, medications, some autoimmune diseases, radiation treatment, mouth breathing, pregnancy, and eating disorders. 

5. Tobacco and tobacco products

Smoking and tobacco products generally cause bad breath. The smell of cigarettes tends to linger in the mouth. Smoking causes drying of the mouth which causes bad breath. Smoking also directly contributes to periodontal disease, which results in bad breath.

6. Medications

As a result, some medications can indirectly produce bad breath by contributing to dry mouth. Some medicines also produce chemicals with bad odors when broken down, this can be carried to the breath.

7. Ear, Nose, and throat conditions.

Conditions such as sinusitis can cause bad breath. Sinus infection can cause mucus to build up instead of circulate. This in turn results in the growth of bacteria that cause bad breath. Post-nasal drip occurs when mucus builds up at the back of the throat, this can cause bad breath.

In addition, tonsil stones (tonsilloliths) are small stones/lumps that form at the back of the throat. When food remnants, bacteria, debris, or minerals get trapped in the tonsils, they can harden causing tonsil stones, which cause a foul smell. This can be managed by proper oral hygiene protocols, using warm salty water gargles, and visiting a dentist for comprehensive management.

8. Systemic medical conditions

Systemic medical conditions can have an effect on bad breath. Diseases such as cancers, and metabolic disorders can bring a distinctive bad breath because of the chemicals they release. Chronic reflux disease can also be associated with bad  breath

Conclusion

Several myths about bad breath should be dispelled: mouthwash kills bad breath and brushing your teeth prevents bad breath.

You will be able to find specialists at Ruby Smiles Dental Clinic who will be able to assist you if you are suffering from bad breath. You can reach us by phone or by WhatsApp at 0748877562.