Many people suffer from bad breath, and fortunately, most potential causes of this problem can be fixed. To explain the common underlying causes of bad breath and how to eliminate them, the website "Live Science" provided an article detailing all these aspects, based on scientific information from two dentists: Dr. Ina Churn from Stony Brook University School of Dentistry, now working in New York City, and Dr. Anjali Rajpal, who holds a doctorate in dentistry from Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts.
1. **Bacteria**
Dr. Churn stated that bacteria are one of the main causes of bad breath, explaining: "Bad breath is caused by bacteria that live in dental plaque and tartar. When plaque accumulates around the teeth, it harbors odor-causing bacteria." Maintaining a healthy oral hygiene routine should help keep bacteria in check.
2. **Fungi**
Dr. Rajpal said: "The most common causes of bad breath are the accumulation of bacteria or fungi on the tongue." According to the Mayo Clinic, oral thrush or oral candidiasis is a common fungal infection that can cause bad breath. While oral thrush is more common in infants and the elderly, it can occur in anyone at any stage of life and can also be caused by taking certain medications.
3. **Dry Mouth**
Dr. Rajpal explained to Live Science that one of the main causes of bad breath is dry mouth. Dry mouth occurs when the body does not produce enough saliva. There are several potential causes for this condition, such as aging, certain medications, nerve damage, and some neurological diseases like dementia. Some healthcare providers recommend chewing sugar-free gum or candies to help alleviate symptoms and encourage the body to produce more saliva. Certain medications can help enhance saliva production if other treatments are unsuccessful.
4. **Acid Reflux**
Acid reflux or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause bad breath. Research published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine in 2008 found a clear link between the two after surveying patients who experienced reflux to see if they also suffered from bad breath. For those with gastric reflux, their symptoms may stem from lifestyle factors, including overeating, eating right before sleep or lying down, and even consuming certain foods, including acidic or fried foods.
5. **Other Health Conditions**
Dr. Rajpal revealed that bad breath can also be a sign of other health conditions, explaining: "Systemic conditions such as sinus problems, tonsil disorders, diabetes, lower respiratory infections, kidney or liver failure, or cancers can all contribute to bad breath." If you have tried various treatments and still experience bad breath or have other symptoms, it is essential to see a general physician or dentist for assistance in managing this embarrassing condition.
The treatment for bad breath will ultimately depend on the underlying cause. However, there are some general hygiene practices you can follow to help keep your mouth free from odor-causing bacteria. Some dietary changes and lifestyle modifications may also assist in controlling bad breath. Dr. Ina Churn recommends the following routine to avoid bad breath:
- Brush your teeth for two minutes twice a day
- Floss or use water floss at least once a day
- Rinse with mouthwash once or twice a day
- See your dental care provider twice a year
If your breath does not improve by following a good oral hygiene routine, you will need to discuss it with your dentist, and deeper cleaning may be required. Dr. Rajpal explained: "An appropriate hygiene regimen is crucial for mechanically removing any buildup of soft plaque before it can mineralize, harden, and adhere to the teeth." Diet also plays a role in maintaining fresh breath, and it is not only about avoiding foods with garlic. Dr. Rajpal explained: "It's important to stay very hydrated and focus on a healthy diet that is low in carbohydrates and rich in crunchy healthy foods, green vegetables, and probiotics to reduce the bacteria's ability to thrive in the oral environment." Alkaline foods include green vegetables, nuts, citrus fruits, and other whole foods.
