The Many Causes of Bad Breath

How does halitosis develop? Smelly breath is a common condition said to be affecting about 40 million Americans. There are numerous reasons behind this condition. For one, eating food that leaves an undesirable odor such as garlic and onion can result to halitosis. So does gum infection, decayed tooth, diseases like liver ailments and diabetes, and sinusitis. But the most common cause of halitosis is poor oral hygiene. Those who do not frequently brush their teeth after meals or who do not like to floss are most susceptible to foul breath. Infection of the oral cavity particularly the teeth, tongue, gum, tonsils, and throat is also known to cause halitosis.

However, even people who have good oral habits can be prone to halitosis. Health problems like sinusitis and emphysema are known to be causes of bad breath. Medical evaluation may be required to diagnose the specific cause of chronic halitosis.

One common misconception is that using mouthwash alone can lessen the bad odor. However, this is not always the case. Food particles need to be removed especially in between the teeth and the gums through dental flossing. Oftentimes, brushing is not enough to remove the food particles that clog the teeth. Instead, using mouthwash after brushing and flossing is more ideal in controlling the foul odor of the breath. One study showed that using mouthwashes can only mask the foul odor for several minutes. In the long run, the foul odor will resurface and trouble those who have halitosis. There are other causes of bad breath worth mentioning such as xerostomia or dry mouth. Dry mouth happens when there is not enough saliva in the mouth. Saliva plays an important role in the cleansing of the mouth. Not only does it lubricate the mouth for chewing and swallowing, but saliva likewise removes bacteria that can cause the foul odor of the breath. Dry mouth can result to unwanted odor of the breath especially when the food articles are kept in the mouth to rot.

Halitosis is also caused from smoking. Cigarette produces smoke which is inhaled by the lungs, and then exhaled via the mouth and nose. The smoke makes an immediate effect on the scent of the breath since the smoke's residues are kept in the airways and the mouth. Likewise, continued smoking can result to gum diseases which happen to be one of the major causes of bad breath. Finally, certain medical conditions can contribute to the deterioration of the smell of one's breath. For instance, those with fishy breath or breath that smells like urine are often stricken with kidney ailments. Sinusitis and infections of the lungs can also cause foul breath. Likewise, those who have eating disorders are prone to halitosis as well as those who frequently go on a diet.

Unerstanding the various causes of halitosis is the first step towards learning to control the condition. Going to a dentist or a specialist is recommended for those who want to get the best possible treatment for bad breath.