Causes of Bad Breath

Bad breath, or halitosis, is an embarrassing problem that affects many people. In many cases, it’s caused by oral bacteria that build up in the mouth and on the tongue. As these bacteria break down food particles, they release odorous compounds.

However, other causes include:

Poor Oral Hygiene

When you don’t brush and floss your teeth, food particles and bacteria build-up. This creates a perfect environment for bad-breath bacteria to grow and multiply. The bacteria then produce sulfur compounds that smell like rotten eggs. Brushing, flossing, and visiting your dentist for checkups and cleanings can help you prevent bad breath.

Smoking

Smoking is one of the worst habits for your oral health. When you smoke, you slow down the blood flow in your body, including your mouth. Without proper blood flow, your mouth can’t repair itself, and bad breath is the result.

Dry Mouth

When you are not producing enough saliva, you can experience dry mouth. This condition can cause bad breath. This is because the bacteria in the plaque are feeding on the leftover food particles in your mouth, and they start emitting a foul odor.

Gum Disease

Gum disease (also known as periodontal disease) can cause bad breath. It occurs when bacteria cause gum inflammation. This inflammation can cause gum tissue to pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that can house bacteria.

If left untreated, gum disease can cause the gums to recede, which can eventually lead to tooth loss.

Diet

Bad breath can be caused by the foods we eat. If you consume lots of garlic, onions, and other foods that produce odors, then your breath may smell bad. Brushing your teeth and tongue soon after you eat these foods can help remove particles that can cause odor.

A diet high in sugar and starch can cause halitosis. This is because your mouth’s natural bacteria feed on these foods, creating odors. If you eat a lot of sugary foods, especially sticky candies, you risk building up a lot of plaque. Plaque, in turn, leads to cavities and gum disease, which can cause bad breath.

Drugs & Medications

Some medications can cause bad breath as a side effect. If you notice bad breath after taking a new medication, talk to your doctor about other options.

If you are looking for an experienced dentist that can help guide you on oral hygiene, schedule a consultation with our dentists at Eldridge Dental in Houston, Texas. You can reach us at (713) 983-0099 or visit our office at 6370 N. Eldridge Pkwy, Suite B, Houston, TX 77041.