Certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can cause bad breath. Once the food is absorbed into the bloodstream, it is transferred to the lungs, where it is expelled. This odor lingers until the body eliminates the food. Mouthwash or breath tablets will mask the odor temporarily, but the odor itself is a temporary situation. Dieters can also develop unpleasant breath from irregular eating habits.
If good dental hygiene is not practiced, including brushing after every meal and flossing daily, particles of food can collect between the teeth. These food particles, combined with bacteria, release sulfur, resulting in a foul odor. The same thing also applies to dentures that are not cleaned and maintained regularly.
Periodontal (gum) disease can cause persistent bad breath and a foul taste in the mouth. The most common cause of this serious dental problem is when plaque, the sticky, colorless film of bacteria that forms constantly on teeth, is allowed to continue to build up. The bacteria creates toxins (poisons) that irritate the gums and can cause them to recede. In the advanced stages, tartar or calculus develops and the gums, bones and other tissues that support the teeth can become damaged. What is in essence a decaying process can cause continuing bad breath unless measures are taken to correct the gum disease.
Bad breath can also be 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. This condition can be caused by various medications, salivary gland problems or continuously breathing through the mouth. Drinking adequate amounts of water throughout the day as well as artificial saliva prescribed by a dentist can alleviate the problem.
Other causes of bad breath include tobacco products, and sinus/nasal infections. There are numerous ways to kick tobacco habits, and in the case of sinus/nasal infections, if your dentist determines your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to a physician for further evaluation.
If it is determined that a dental problem is the cause of bad breath, your dentist will recommend certain measures to eliminate the condition. If the cause is something as serious as gum disease, your dentist will recommend necessary treatment to restore your mouth to health as well as alleviate the breath condition. If you have any questions concerning bad breath as well as a variety of dental questions, a dentist is your best source of information!
