5 causes of bad breath

Whatever the causes of bad breath, smelly breath can be a real nuisance. It can make you feel confident and is viewed by many as a social taboo. Whether you think you need help freshening up your breath or are just curious about the causes of bad breath, this article will shed some light as we examine 5 causes of bad breath.

Bad breath can have many possible causes, but the good news is that many of them also have simple solutions, such as using an electric toothbrush properly. So, if you follow some of the steps below, you may find that some simple lifestyle changes can help you achieve fresh breath that will last all day.

We spoke to two dentists Dr. Inna Cherna and DR. Anjali Rajpalto ask them about the main causes of bad breath and how they advise their patients to treat them. Dr. Chern graduated from Stony Brook University of Dentistry with a degree in dentistry and is now practicing in New York City. Dr. Rajpal received his PhD in medical dentistry from Tufts University in Boston, MA. She is currently practicing in Beverly Hills working to combine the arts and science in cosmetic dentistry.

5 causes of bad breath

1. Bacteria

Dr. Chern told us that bacteria are a major cause of bad breath: “Halitosis, or bad breath, is caused by bacteria that live in plaque and tartar. When plaque builds up around teeth, it is home to odor-causing bacteria. ”Healthy oral hygiene should help keep bacteria at bay.

2. mushrooms

“The most common culprit for oral malodor is bacterial or fungal build-up on the tongue,” said Dr. Rajpal. According to the Mayo Clinic, Oral thrush, or oral candidiasis, is a common yeast infection that can cause bad breath. While oral thrush is more common in infants and the elderly, it can affect anyone at any stage of life. It can also be caused by taking some medications.

(Image credit: Getty)

3. Dry mouth

Another major cause of bad breath is dry mouth, said Dr. Rajpal opposite Live Science. Also known as Xerostomia, Dry mouth is a condition that occurs when your body does not produce enough saliva. The condition has several possible causes: aging, certain medications, nerve damage, and some neurological conditions like dementia. Some health care providers recommend chewing sugar-free gum or candy to relieve symptoms and encourage your body to make more saliva. Some medications can increase saliva production when other medications don’t work.

4. Acid reflux

Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause bad breath. Research published in the journal of General internal medicine found a clear link between the two disorders in 2008 after surveying patients who had reflux to see if they also had bad breath. People with GERD can find theirs Symptoms are triggered by certain lifestyle factorsincluding consuming large amounts of food, eating just before bed or lying down, and even consuming certain foods, including acidic or fried foods.

5. Other health conditions

Dr. Rajpal told us that bad breath can be a sign of other health conditions as well: “Systemic diseases like sinus problems, tonsil disease, diabetes, lower respiratory tract infections, kidney or liver failure, or carcinoma can all contribute to halitosis or bad breath as well.” If you use various remedies Have tried and are still experiencing bad breath or other symptoms, you should report your problems to your doctor or dentist, who can help determine the source of the problem.

5 Causes of Bad Breath: How to Get Rid of Bad Breath

Treatment for bad breath ultimately depends on what is causing the problem. However, there are some general hygiene measures you can follow to keep your mouth free of odor-causing bacteria. Some lifestyle adjustments and changes in your diet can help keep bad breath under control. Dr. Inna Chern recommends the following routine to avoid bad breath:

Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day
Floss or water floss at least once a day
Rinse with mouthwash once or twice a day
Go to your dentist twice a year

If good oral hygiene doesn’t improve your breath, speak to your dentist: a more thorough cleaning may be needed. Dr. Rajpal stated, “Adequate hygiene is critical to mechanically removing any soft plaque buildup before it has a chance to mineralize, harden and adhere to the tooth. At this point we, as dentists, need to intervene to remove the hardening tartar or tartar. Patients with heavy buildup under the gums often complain of bad breath, but will find that it disappears after a thorough cleaning treatment. “

5 causes of bad breath: The picture shows a woman pouring mouthwash

(Image credit: Getty)

Your diet also plays a part in keeping your breath fresh, and it’s not just about avoiding foods with garlic! “It’s important to stay very hydrated and focus on a healthy, basic, low-carb diet high in crispy, healthy foods, green vegetables, and probiotics in order for the bacteria to thrive in the oral environment reduce “, says Dr. Rajpal explains. Basic foods include green vegetables, nuts, citrus fruits, and other whole foods.

Health care providers are available to help with problems such as bad breath. And while it’s rare, bad breath can be caused by some chronic health problems like diabetes or kidney and liver failure. Your dentist may advise you to consult your doctor if they suspect that something other than oral hygiene issues is causing your bad breath. Once all of the underlying health problems are under control, you will likely find that your breath smells neutral again.