Bad Breath: Symptoms, Causes and Prevention

Symptoms of Bad Breath

The symptoms of bad breath can vary and have different causes, from poor oral hygiene to severe health conditions.

• Persistent unpleasant odour on exhaling
• Dry mouth and bad taste in the mouth
• White spots on the tonsils
• Coated tongue
• Frequent throat clearing
• Bad breath after eating
• Plaque or Tartar buildup
• Increased salivation or foul odor from the mouth

Causes of Bad Breath

The causes of bad breath are varied, and they can be categorized into two main types: oral and non-oral.

• Poor Dental Hygiene: Infrequent brushing and flossing allow food particles to accumulate, promoting bacterial growth and causing unpleasant odors.
• Plaque Build-Up: A sticky film of bacteria forms on teeth. If not removed, it can lead to gum irritation and progress to periodontal disease, contributing to halitosis.
• Mouth Infections: Surgical wounds from procedures like tooth extraction, tooth decay, gum disease, or mouth sores can lead to halitosis.
• Tonsil Stones: Small, bacteria-covered stones that form on the tonsils can emit foul odors.
• Tobacco Use: Chewing tobacco and smoking increase the risk of gum disease, a common cause of unpleasant breath.
• Dental Braces: Food particles trapped in braces can rot if not cleaned properly, leading to unpleasant breath.
• Digestive Issues: Poor digestion, constipation, or bowel disorders may contribute to halitosis.
• Pregnancy: Hormonal changes, dehydration, and dietary changes during pregnancy, including morning sickness, can cause halitosis.
• Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva flow due to dehydration or certain medications can lead to halitosis, as saliva helps cleanse the mouth.
• Diet: Diets high in protein, low in carbohydrates, sugary foods, garlic, onions, spicy foods, certain cheeses, fish, and acidic beverages like coffee can contribute to unpleasant breath.

You can better control or avoid halitosis by being aware of these reasons for bad breath, maintaining good dental hygiene, changing your lifestyle, and getting help for any underlying conditions.

Conditions that cause bad breath

Here are some condition-related causes of bad breath:

• Gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) is due to bacterial infection
• Sinus infections, postnasal drip, or throat infections
• Uncontrolled diabetes, especially if it causes ketoacidosis
• Digestive issues like acid reflux or stomach infections
• Liver or kidney disorders that release odor-causing toxins

When to see a doctor?

If poor breath persists despite adequate oral hygiene and is accompanied by dry mouth, ulcers, Gastrointestinal Symptoms, Chronic Bad Breath in Children, Bad Breath with Tonsil Stones, or other symptoms.

Seeking a timely medical or dental evaluation can help identify the root cause and provide effective treatment.

Diagnosis of Bad Breath

Diagnosing bad breath, or halitosis, involves several methods to pinpoint its cause and severity:

Clinical Evaluation

• Dentists often evaluate halitosis by smelling the breath and rating its intensity on a scale. They may also examine the back of the tongue, a common source of the odour.

Diagnostic Tools and Tests

• Halimeter: Detects low levels of sulfur compounds in the breath.
• Gas Chromatography Test: Analyzes volatile sulfur compounds like hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide.
• BANA Test: Measures specific enzymes produced by bacteria linked to halitosis.
• Beta-galactosidase Test: Assesses levels of this enzyme, correlating it with mouth odour.

These tests help dentists identify the underlying causes of halitosis accurately, guiding appropriate treatment strategies.

Treatment of Bad Breath

Treatment focuses on improving oral hygiene, addressing dental issues, and managing underlying medical conditions contributing to bad breath.

• Good Oral Hygiene: Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, floss daily, and clean your tongue to remove odor-causing bacteria.
• Use of Mouthwash: Choose an antibacterial mouthwash with chlorhexidine or essential oils for lasting freshness.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink water regularly and chew sugar-free gum to prevent dry mouth.
• Medication Support: Consult a doctor if bad breath continues; treatment may involve managing infections or acid reflux.
• Dietary Adjustments: Limit foods like garlic and onions; include fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.
• Regular Dental Visits: Visit your dentist for routine cleanings and to treat underlying dental issues.

Prevention of Bad Breath

• Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove food and plaque.
• Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months or after getting sick.
• Visit your dentist at least twice a year for check-ups.
• Quit smoking and avoid tobacco products.
• Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth moist.
• Chew sugarless gum or candy with xylitol to increase saliva, which helps clean your mouth.
• Keep track of foods and medications that could cause this condition and discuss them with your dentist or doctor.

Home Remedies for Bad Breath

Home remedies and lifestyle changes for bad breath include:

• Brush your teeth clean about 60% of the tooth surface
• Flossing reduces the buildup of food particles and dental plaque between the teeth
• Chew fresh parsley or mint leaves to neutralize bad breath naturally.
• Clean dentures of everything that goes into your mouth
• Drink green tea to reduce bacteria and freshen breath.
• Brushing the tongue.
• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid consuming more onions, garlic, and spicy foods

Suppose the breath odour persists despite controlling these factors. In that case, it is recommended to see a doctor for further testing to rule out other conditions.