Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be embarrassing, especially when other people comment on it, making you feel self-conscious about talking or even smiling. But chronic bad breath can also be a sign of a larger problem. Most cases of bad breath occur after a meal with onions or other ingredients with strong odors, or after going a long time without brushing. These cases are resolved by brushing or gargling with mouthwash. Chronic halitosis, on the other hand, occurs frequently and can only be temporarily relieved with basic hygiene. This is because chronic bad breath doesn’t exist on its own; it’s often a symptom of a more serious problem and cannot be resolved without the proper treatment. Poor oral hygiene habits: infrequent brushing, not flossing and not rinsing with mouthwash can lead to excessive, odor-causing bacteria in the mouth Chronic illnesses: poorly controlled diabetes can cause a buildup of sugar, which attracts bacteria, while kidney failure can cause a fishy smell in the mouth Medications: Antidepressants, diuretics and other medications that cause dry mouth can reduce your saliva production, making it more hospitable to bacteria Gum disease or infection: whether at the gum line or in the tooth itself, periodontitis and other infections in the mouth can leave an unpleasant taste and a bad odor in your mouth What are the remedies for bad breath?
MedicineNet does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. See additional information. oral health center/oral health a-z list/bad breath article Medical Author: John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP Medical Editor: Jerry R. Balentine, DO, FACEP Introduction What is bad breath? Causes What are the possible causes of bad breath? Symptoms What symptoms may be associated with bad breath? Diagnosis How do healthcare professionals diagnose halitosis? Treatment How do you treat bad halitosis? Prognosis What is the prognosis for people with halitosis? Halitosis, or bad breath, can be cured with the treatment of the underlying causes.
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Fortunately, starting or resuming an oral care routine at home can quickly bring an end to your bad breath. Your hygienist can show you how to brush and floss if you need a refresher on the best way to do it. Seeing a dental professional for regular cleanings and checkups can also help treat bad breath caused by poor oral hygiene.
Foods and drinks that can cause bad breath:
Regular dental check-ups also provide an opportunity for education and guidance on proper oral hygiene practices. Dentists can provide personalized recommendations for preventing tonsil stones and bad breath based on an individual's specific needs.
A large number of ketones in the body can cause bad breath that may smell sweet, or similar to acetone (a type of ketone) which is commonly found in nail polish remover. Diabetics are at risk of diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), which is when ketones rise to unsafe levels.
A dentist will also examine your mouth for any signs of gum disease or other oral health issues that may be causing bad breath. They may recommend additional treatments or procedures to address these issues and improve your breath odor.
Yes, poor oral hygiene is one of the most common causes of bad breath, also known as halitosis. When we don’t brush and floss our teeth regularly, food particles and bacteria can build up in our mouth, particularly between teeth and along the gumline. These particles and bacteria can produce an unpleasant odor that can result in bad breath.
Natural Remedies for Bad Breath: Essential Oils and Herbs
Cigarette smoke has a very strong odor, so it should be little surprise that it’s a common cause of bad breath. Cigarettes and other tobacco products can also increase your risk of gum and bone disease, which can also contribute to bad breath.
UPMC: “What Are Tonsil Stones (Tonsilloliths)? Tonsil Stone Symptoms and Treatment.”
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Besides food items, medical conditions like a build-up of calculus, gum diseases, dry mouth, poorly fitted dentures, acid reflux, and tonsil stones are often found to be some of the causes. Halitosis should not be left untreated because it can be one of the symptoms of severe problems like chronic sinus infections, bronchitis, diabetes, pneumonia, and even kidney-linked issues.
Can cavities cause bad breath or halitosis? Tooth decay occurs when bacteria break down the tooth enamel and dentin, resulting in cavities. The bacteria responsible for cavities can cause bad breath and are, therefore, can be one of the causes of halitosis.
Researchers leading a recent study found that 75% of children and adults with volatile sulfur compounds in their breath had undiagnosed tonsil stones. So, that rotten-egg smell in your breath comes from bacteria growing in and around your tonsil stone.
Dentists usually diagnose bad breath. The diagnosis is based on your health history and mouth odor during the dental exam. The entire mouth is checked to see if a cause can be found, such as an infection. If the dentist can’t find the cause, they will refer you to your primary healthcare provider.