There’s more to bad breath than meets the nose. Halitosis, or bad breath, isn’t just about the dinner you had last night or the coffee you sipped this morning. While those foods and drinks can certainly be the culprit, they’re not the only ones you should look out for.
What Causes Bad Breath
Here are six causes of bad breath you probably didn’t know until now:
1 – Gum Disease
Gum disease is a leading cause of bad breath, and it’s also one of the most common dental problems in the United States. Gingivitis, referred to as the earliest stage of gum disease, causes bad breath because bacteria accumulate in the mouth.
Gum disease can occur when you don’t pay attention to your oral health. If you fail to brush and floss your teeth regularly, plaque will build up on your teeth and gums. The bacteria in plaque produces compounds that bring an unpleasant odor.
Visiting your dentist regularly prevents the likelihood of gum disease, especially if you get professional teeth cleaning done every 6 months.
2 – Dry Mouth
Dry mouth, also known as xerostomia, is a common condition that can cause bad breath. When your mouth isn’t producing enough saliva, it becomes a breeding ground for bacteria. The bacteria then causes bad breath and a host of other dental problems.
Sucking on sugar-free candy or gum will help increase saliva production. Drinking plenty of water likewise keeps your mouth moist. These things don’t require any effort and are easy to do throughout the day.
3 – Infections
Any infection, including those in the nose, throat, or lungs, can cause bad breath. Bacteria from the infection can spread to the mouth and cause bad breath. Most folks don’t realize they have an infection until they start experiencing bad breath.
Tonsillitis, sinus infections, and bronchitis are common infections that lead to bad breath. See your doctor if you’re experiencing a persistent cough, fever, or body aches. These could be signs of an infection, too.
4 – Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is a leading cause of bad breath in adults. When bacteria from food and drink accumulates on the teeth, it combines with saliva to create an unpleasant odor. This odor becomes worse as the decay progresses.
Tooth decay is easily preventable by regularly brushing and flossing your teeth and visiting your dentist for check-ups. It isn’t that much to ask, and it can save you a lot of trouble down the road.
5 – Smoking
We all know how smoking kills, but one of the lesser-known ways it harms your health is by causing bad breath. Cigarette smoke contains toxins that irritate the gums and cause bad breath. This is especially true when smoking cigarettes immediately after eating.
Did you know that smoking contributes to gum disease, too? People who smoke are more likely to develop gum disease than those who don’t. Quitting smoking is a no-brainer for your health – and your breath.
6 – Diet
What you eat can also cause bad breath. Some foods, like onions and garlic, contain sulfur compounds released when digested. These compounds give food its flavor, but they can also make your breath smell bad. Unlike all the other causes in this list, you can to control what you eat, so it’s an easier fix.
Halitosis can be remedied. You just have to figure out the cause and take steps to address it. If you’re experiencing bad breath, don’t ignore the problem – find the cause and take steps to fix it. Your mouth will thank you and so will your friends.