What causes bad breath?
What you eat affects the air you exhale. Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, contribute to objectionable breath odor. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will only mask the odor temporarily. Odors continue until the body eliminates the food. Dieters may develop unpleasant breath from infrequent eating. If you don’t brush and floss 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. Dentures that are not cleaned properly can also harbor odor-causing bacteria and food particles. One of the warning signs of periodontal (gum) disease is persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth. Periodontal disease is caused by plaque, the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that constantly forms on teeth.
The most common cause of bad breath comes from problems in the mouth associated with bacteria. Poor oral hygiene, broken fillings, gum disease and the effects of tobacco use are but a few of these problems. This is why we encourage patients to have a thorough dental exam to help to more accurately locate sources of their problem.
Bad breath can be caused by many conditions. Some causes include inadequate brushing and flossing, gum disease/periodontitis, certain foods that we eat, smoking, dry mouth, certain medications, and medical problems such as diabetes and respiratory infections. If you have bad breath, we can help you determine an underlying cause.
Bad breath is generally a result of dental decay and periodontitis, a disease affecting the gums and bone. Periodontitis occurs when the gums become inflamed and infected, ultimately spreading pockets of plaque and tartar from the gums to the bone that supports the teeth. The teeth may become loose and eventually fall out if left untreated. Periodontitis is treatable, but good oral hygiene is the best method of avoiding this problem.
