Conditions That Cause Bad Breath

Bad breath may be caused by bacteria on the teeth and periodontal disease. When plaque is not properly removed, a sticky residue is left. This residue will breed bacteria and develop an odor. Infection can occur from improper removal of plaque and also contribute to halitosis (bad breath).

There are other conditions or situations that can cause an odor in the mouth. Certain foods, such as onion or garlic, will leave a strong odor on your breath. This is a temporary problem and can be eliminated by brushing the teeth after eating these foods.

Smoking is a contributing factor to bad breath. If you smoke, the inside of your mouth will not smell pleasant due to an accumulation of substances, such as tar and nicotine, that are left on your tongue, gums and the inside of your cheeks.

Improperly cleaned dentures may cause a case of halitosis. Also a wisdom tooth that has not completely come through the gum can contribute to a bad breath condition, as can tooth decay.

If you suffer from xerostomia, or dry mouth, you may also find that your breath is unpleasant. Dry mouth can be the result of anxiety or certain medications. When saliva production is low, the mouth is not properly cleansed, and particles of plaque that would otherwise be washed away will be left behind. This may be one reason that dry mouth contributes to bad breath.

Proper brushing and flossing will certainly help in keeping your teeth clean and your breath pleasant.

Source: Dentist Torrance

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