Causes of Bad Breath
The exact reasons that bad breath may occur can vary. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly which cause is creating every individual’s problem. The clinical term for bad breath is halitosis, which is an oral disease that is more common and widespread than you may think.
To find out if you have halitosis, there is a very simple test. Just lick the back of your hand and wait a few seconds for the saliva to dry. Once you have done this, smell the back of your hand. If there is a bad smell, you may have halitosis.
The presence of bacteria in the mouth and on the tongue is the main cause of bad breath. This oral bacteria’s growth is due in part to remnants of food left in the mouth. This can cause a buildup of tartar and plaque. Gum disease left untreated can also contribute to bad breath. Certain foods containing volatile sulfur compounds, such as onions and garlic, can also create sour odors in the mouth, as well as consumption of alcohol, coffee and dairy products.
Using tobacco products can also be a factor of bad breath, as well as other oral diseases. Gum irritation, loss of taste and tooth discoloration may result from tobacco usage. Periodontal disease, another possible effect from tobacco, can cause severe bad breath as well as irritation.
Most people associate bad breath with diet, however medication can be a precipitator as well. Various antidepressants such as aspirin and diuretics can have a common side effect of dry mouth, or xerostomia. Saliva is a natural mouthwash that our body needs in order to reduce oral bacteria. When dry mouth occurs, the production of saliva is reduced, which in turn causes more bacteria to grow. The saliva ducts also lessen production during sleep, which is why most people wake up with “morning breath”.
Another possible cause of halitosis is related to health problems. Common ailments such as bronchitis, chronic sinusitis, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, kidney disorders, liver malfunctioning and respiratory tract infections can all be causes of bad breath.
Luckily, everyone who suffers from halitosis has options. Whiter Smile has a selection of bad breath treatments available through our online shopping facility to treat bad breath including a range of products bo Therabreath and BreathRX.