Bad breath | What causes

What causes bad breath?

Bad breath, ( halitosis), can often be a source of embarrassment, can interfere in social situations and marriages, and can create psychological barriers. The good news is, bad breath can be treated and prevented.

Common causes of bad breath:

1. Foods such as onions and garlic.

2. Plaque & food debris.
If you don't brush and floss daily, food particles left on your tongue and between your teeth can begin to rot causing bad breath. These food particles can also collect bacteria which can cause a faul odor in the mouth.

3. Partials and Dentures.
If a partial or denture is not cleaned properly, they can also house odor causing bacteria and food particles.

4. Peridontal disease.

5. Dry mouth.
Age, some medications and conditions, can cause dry mouth. Dry mouth occurs when there is little or no saliva being produced. Saliva helps to cleanse the mouth by washing away food particles and odor causing bacteria as well as keeping the oral tissues moist. When there is very little saliva, food particles and bacteria stick and harden to the teeth, the tongue, and soft tissues in the mouth.

6. Tobacco products.
Tobacco not only causes the teeth to stain, irritate the gum tissues, can lead to oral cancer, and can interfere with taste, it also causes bad breath. People who use tobacco products are more likely to develop periodontal disease, which can cause bad breath and other oral health problems.

7. Medical conditions.
An infection in the nose, throat, lungs, as well as sinus infections, chronic bronchitis, postnasal drip, kidney or liver problems, diabetes, and gastrointestinal problems can all cause bad breath. If the dentist tells you that your mouth is in good oral health, the dentist may recommend scheduling a visit with your physician to determine the cause of your bad breath.

8. Fasting.