Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, can be very unpleasant and affects about 30% of the global population. That’s why it’s no surprise that shelves are filled with chewing gum, menthol candies, mouthwashes, and other products designed to fight bad breath. However, all of these products are only temporary solutions because they don’t address the underlying cause of the problem. Bad breath is a health condition that lowers self-confidence and affects daily life and personal relationships. However, you may have a hard time noticing the problem unless your family and colleagues point it out. You can easily recognize bad breath if you have post-nasal drip, a bitter metallic taste in your mouth, white coating on your tongue, and thick saliva. Many symptoms of bad breath depend on the cause. One of the best ways to check if you have unpleasant breath is to lick the inside of your wrist, wait a few seconds, and then smell it.
Certain foods, health conditions, and bad habits are among the main causes of bad breath. In many cases, bad breath can be improved by persistent and good oral hygiene. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, visit your dentist to ensure that there isn’t a more serious underlying cause.
How does food affect unpleasant breath?
All food is first broken down in the mouth. It is then digested, absorbed into the bloodstream, and carried to the lungs. This is how the food we consume affects our breath. If you eat foods with strong odors, such as garlic, onions, asparagus, curry, cumin, and alcohol, brushing your teeth and using dental floss will only temporarily mask the smell. It won’t completely disappear until the food has passed through your entire body.
Why do bad habits cause bad breath?
If oral hygiene is not maintained regularly, i.e., if teeth are not brushed and flossed, food particles remain and lead to the growth of bacteria between teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue. This causes bad breath. Mouthwash can also help reduce bacteria. Smoking or chewing tobacco-based products can also be the culprits behind bad breath, as well as stains on teeth, irritated gums, or a reduced sense of taste.
What health problems are linked to bad breath?
Persistent bad breath or a bad taste in the mouth can be warning signs of periodontal diseases (gum diseases). These are caused by plaque buildup on the teeth and the formation of bacteria that produce toxins which irritate the gums. If left untreated, this condition can permanently damage both the gums and the jaw. Breath problems can also arise from poorly fitting dental restorations, such as crowns and bridges, or from cavities. Dry mouth (xerostomia) can also cause unpleasant breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and rinse away dead cells that accumulate on the tongue, gums, and mucous membranes in the mouth. If these cells are not removed, they will break down and cause bad breath. Dry mouth can be a side effect of certain medications, problems with the salivary glands, or chronic mouth breathing. People with dry mouth may have difficulty speaking, swallowing, and experience a burning sensation in the mouth, as well as dry eyes. There are also other conditions linked to bad breath.
Therefore, it is essential to consult your dentist if you experience persistent issues. Proper dental care and regular check-ups at least twice a year are the easiest way to avoid breath problems.