Bad breath, medically referred to as “halitosis,” can be more than just an annoyance. It can be a source of embarrassment and ongoing frustration for those who suffer from it, potentially even leading to social anxiety.

If you are suffering from bad breath, you may feel eager to quickly get rid of it – but the only way to truly solve the problem is to identify its source. Let’s start there.

What Are The Causes Of Bad Breath?

Bad breath has many causes, some of which may surprise you! Some of these include:

• Poor oral hygiene: The first thing to consider is if you are following a consistent, healthy oral care routine, including brushing your teeth twice a day, flossing daily, and visiting your dentist at least once a year for checkups and cleanings.
• Certain foods: It can be easy to overlook, but it may also be worth considering foods you regularly consume that may be the cause of bad breath. Common culprits include garlic, spices, fish, and onion.
• Dry mouth: Dry mouth, also referred to as “xerostomia,” is a condition caused by a lack of saliva in the mouth, which can result in bad breath. Dry mouth can be caused by various factors, including aging and certain medications.
• Smoking: Smoking can also be the cause of dry mouth, though it can also cause bad breath by mixing the chemicals in cigarettes with your saliva.
• Gum disease: In some cases, halitosis can have a more serious underlying cause, including gum disease. The bacteria that builds up and causes gum disease can have a sulfur smell to it, leading to persistent bad breath.

In rare cases, bad breath can also indicate more serious conditions, including kidney disease, diabetes, liver disease, and more. It can also be a sign of digestive problems, including bowel disorders.

How Do You Prevent Bad Breath?

Once you have identified the source of bad breath, which may require some tests and trial and error, you can begin to address the symptoms associated with it. Some treatment options include:

• Improving oral hygiene
• Quitting smoking
• Addressing the cause of gum disease
• Diet modifications
• Mouth rinses

Unfortunately, it is not always possible to completely remove or remedy the underlying cause of bad breath.

For example, if you are taking a prescription that is causing dry mouth and bad breath, you should focus more on managing your bad breath versus eliminating it. Doing so could include chewing sugar-free gum, regularly using mouthwash, and brushing your teeth after you eat.

When it comes to bad breath caused by gum disease, there is no known cure. However, there are effective, simple ways to manage symptoms of gum disease, including bad breath, such as Perio Protect.

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