6 Common Causes of Bad Breath That You Should Be Aware Of

Bad breath is a common problem that many people experience. Though it can be embarrassing, there are ways to overcome bad breath and keep it at bay. Research shows that more than half of the population has odors that are detectable to others. The causes of bad breath can be traced to many factors, from lifestyle habits like smoking and chewing tobacco to medical conditions like periodontal disease and diabetes. Here are some of the most common causes of bad breath and how you can prevent or treat them.

Diabetes is a condition that causes high blood sugar levels. High blood sugar levels can cause your body to release excess amounts of saliva and the resulting saliva contains more bacteria, which leads to bad breath. Though diabetes is not a direct cause of bad breath, it can be a contributing factor. The good news is that with proper care, you can control your diabetes and prevent or treat your bad breath at the same time.

One cause of bad breath is dry mouth. Dehydration, in particular, can lead to dry mouth and a painful condition called xerostomia which leads to bad breath. This is because when people lack fluids, their saliva production decreases and they end up with more bacteria that causes an odor. Another cause of bad breath is lower-than-normal hydrochloric acid levels. Hydrochloric acid is the main component of gastric secretions, which help break down food for digestion. When the levels of hydrochloric acid are low, your body will produce fewer enzymes for digestion. This will lead to a buildup of undigested food in your stomach and can eventually be expelled through vomiting or flatulence.

Tobacco smoke contains chemicals that can cause plaque and gum disease. These can cause bad breath and tooth decay, while also leading to poor dental health. Tobacco residue from the mouth can also lead to odors on your breath. The best way to keep teeth healthy is by brushing your teeth at least twice a day with toothpaste containing fluoride.

Gum disease is the most common cause of bad breath. It can be caused by dental plaque buildup and gum inflammation, which leads to bad breath. This condition can be treated with regular professional cleanings and home remedies that have been shown to help, like brushing your teeth after every meal. However, it is better to contact the best dentists, especially if the signs of gum disease are severe.

The bacteria that live in your mouth produce sulfur compounds that cause bad breath. When the concentration of these bacteria is high, your breath will be more difficult to tolerate. The best way to combat this issue is by brushing your teeth and flossing on a regular basis. Though it's important to brush at least twice a day, you should also floss once a day, preferably before going to bed. If you have gum disease or periodontal disease, the bacteria can enter through the gums and cause an infection in the mouth. This results in bleeding, swelling, and ulcers that lead to bad breath because they disrupt the function of saliva in the mouth.

One of the most common causes of bad breath is medications and supplements. Chemicals in some over-the-counter pain relievers can cause halitosis (bad breath) by dehydrating the mouth. You may find that your mouth becomes dry from time to time because these chemicals irritate the lining of your throat, leading to inflammation. If you are taking a medication or supplement for a medical condition, speak with your doctor about potential side effects that could contribute to halitosis.

It's not just a bad smell; it's an embarrassing one. Not only is bad breath unpleasant, but it can be a sign of some serious health concerns. That's why you shouldn't neglect this issue. The sooner you define the cause of your bad breath, the more effective your treatment will be.