by Shen-Li Lee

Created on: September 27, 2009

Bad breath is an embarrassing condition that can affect both the self-esteem and confidence of an individual and is one of the most common reasons why people visit the dentist. Also referred to as "halitosis" by health professionals, it may be a transient or long term problem. Transient halitosis can vary in intensity throughout the day and from day to day. It is affected by the types of food and drinks consumed and the frequency and thoroughness that oral hygiene practices are carried out. Transient bad breath is usually resolved after brushing, flossing, rinsing, eating or drinking.

Long term halitosis or persistent bad breath is suggestive of other underlying conditions that require further investigation. Generally, if the regular measures for preventing bad breath do not have any effect on alleviating the problem, it is advisable to see a dentist to assist the diagnosis of other underlying causes.

What are the Causes of Bad Breath?

Certain foods, such as garlic, onions and specific spices can cause bad breath. When consumed, the food is absorbed into the blood stream. It is then transferred to the lungs where the odours are given off through breathing.

Dieters are also prone to developing bad breath through infrequent food consumption. Certain diets also increase the risk of halitosis due to the nature of the metabolic reactions they promote in the body. For instance, high protein diets increases ketosis which produces acetone as a waste product. Acetone is excreted through urine and the breath which causes bad breath.

Individuals with poor oral hygiene are also candidates for bad breath because food particles that remain in the mouth can rot and release unpleasant odours. Additionally, poor oral hygiene is also often a precursor to oral conditions such as gum disease, cavities, and dental abscesses. The bacteria associated with these diseases are anaerobic in nature and produce gaseous compounds during metabolism that cause bad breath.

Xerostomia, which is a condition in individuals who have inadequate saliva production, can also cause bad breath. Also referred to as "dry mouth", the decrease flow of saliva in the mouth caused by xerostomia leads to the development of bad breath because there is insufficient saliva to assist in cleaning the mouth and removing particles that cause bad breath. Consumption of certain medications, mouth breathing and certain medical conditions are the cause of dry mouth.

Smokers and users of tobacco products also have bad breath. Aside from the unpleasant smell of tobacco on the breath, smoking also aggravates bad breath by reducing the flow of saliva and increasing an individual's risk of developing gum disease through the damage of soft tissues in the mouth.

Aside from dental diseases, dry mouth and smoking, there are also certain medical conditions that can cause bad breath. Most common are respiratory infections (e.g. postnasal drip, chronic sinusitis, and bronchitis), diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbances, and liver and kidney diseases. More conditions that can cause bad breath may be found on Wrong Diagnosis.

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