What are the major causes of bad breath?
What you eat affects the air you exhale. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor. After the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. When you brush, floss or use mouthwash you will only mask the odor temporarily. Odors continue until the body eliminates the food. By not brushing and flossing daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, on the tongue and around the gums can rot, leaving an unpleasant odor. Periodontal (gum) disease can also cause bad breath. With regular dental checkups, your dentist can detect and treat periodontal disease early. Bad breath is also caused by dry mouth (xerostomia), which occurs when the flow of saliva decreases. Saliva is necessary to cleanse the mouth and remove particles that may cause odor Tobacco products cause bad breath, stain teeth, reduce one’s ability to taste food
