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February 4, 2025
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What Causes Bad Breath?
Halitosis is an oral health problem where the main symptom is bad smelling breath. In most cases, finding the cause of the bad breath is the first step toward treating this preventable condition.
What Causes Bad Breath?
There are many causes of bad breath, just as there are many sources of bacteria in the mouth. Halitosis may be caused by the following.
Poor oral health care
Without correct and regular brushing and flossing, and routine dental exams, food stays in the mouth. This is a breeding ground for bacteria. Food that collects on the teeth, gums, and tongue may rot. This causes an unpleasant odor and taste in the mouth.
Incorrect cleaning of dentures
Dentures that are not cleaned correctly may be collecting bacteria, fungi, and remaining food particles. All of these cause bad breath.
Odor-causing bacteria on the tongue
Certain bacteria on the back of the tongue can interact with amino acids in foods and make smelly sulfur compounds.
What can I do to prevent halitosis?
Halitosis can be prevented or decreased if you:
1. Brush and floss your teeth at least twice a day
2. Brush your tongue, cheeks, and the roof of your mouth. Most bad breath bacteria live on the tongue. So brushing or scraping the tongue can make a big difference in your breath.
3. If you have dentures, take them out at night. Clean them completely before putting them back in your mouth. Talk with your dentist before using deodorizing sprays or tablets. Some only mask the odor for a short time.
4. If you smoke, quit. Ask your healthcare provider for help. You will have better smelling breath and a healthier body overall.
5. Keep your saliva flowing by eating healthy foods that make you chew. Carrots and apples need a lot of saliva. You can also chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free candies. If you still don’t have enough saliva to keep your mouth moist, your dentist may suggest artificial saliva.
Visit your dentist on a regular basis. Regular checkups can find problems, such as gum disease, infections, and dry mouth. If you have bad breath and the dentist can’t find a cause, you may be referred to your primary healthcare provider for more follow-up.
What to Do Until You Get to the Dentist
Until you are able to see the dentist, you may want to get some temporary relief from your toothache pain. Over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin can be helpful, as can using a cold compress on your jaw. A saltwater rinse is also one of the best home remedies. Use half a teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and swish this around in your mouth for a minimum of 30 seconds
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