Common Causes and Solutions For Bad Breath

February 23, 2020

Halitosis, also known as bad breath, is commonly characterised by foul and unpleasant odour in the mouth. Bad breath can occur occasionally or can also be a chronic condition. There are many causes of bad breath and the cure for bad breath will depend on its cause.

Here are the most common causes of bad breath:

Poor oral hygiene

Having good oral hygiene does pay off! Brushing and flossing teeth lessens plaque build up in the mouth. Plaque contains bacteria causing gum irritation and gum disease. These gum conditions lead to bad odour of the mouth.

Food

Considered as one of the most common sources of the halitosis, some food, especially spicy and exotic food, can leave a fetid lingering smell. Sometimes food can get stuck in the teeth, leading to bacterial growth which results in an unpleasant smell.

Smoking

Smoking not just increases the risk of getting gingivitis, gum disease and oral cancer but also bad breath. This is due to chemicals from smoking and chewing tobacco.

Dental Infections

Dental decay, gum disease and other oral infection can lead to this bad breath condition.

Dry Mouth

Xerostomia or dry mouth can affect many adults. This condition is mainly due to less saliva produced by salivary glands. Causes of dry mouth vary. No matter what the cause may be, when the mouth becomes dry, bad breath may result.

Health ProblemS

Some common systemic problems can be associated with bad breath. This includes infection of the sinus and upper respiratory organ. Some stomach and liver problems can also result into bad breath.

Dentures and other oral appliance

It is important to keep dentures and other oral appliance clean and plaque free. Food particles can easily get stuck into these appliances that can result in the build up of bacteria and bad breath.

How can we treat bad breath or halitosis?

As I mentioned earlier, there are a few simple things we can do to treat this condition. The most common solutions are:

Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss at least once daily. This will minimise plaque build up and prevent bad breath.
Rinse your mouth regularly especially after having tea or coffee, or after eating if you don’t have access to a toothbrush.
Rinse daily with a mouthwash to kill the bacteria that is causing bad breath.
Scrape your tongue, as it can also be a host for smelly bacteria.
Avoid foods that sour your breath.
Quit Smoking.
See your dentist regularly.

If you suspect that your current health problems is causing you bad breath, see your medical GP.

If you have any further questions, concerns on bad breath and how to treat this condition, it is highly recommended that you seek professional dental advice. Come and see any of our dentists in Erina, Central Coast, NSW. We will be happy to discuss this further with you.

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Dr Rouel

New Leaf Dentist

DMD, Gen. Dent. Cert., P.G. Dip. Digital Orthodontics, FPFA, FICD, FICCDE, FADI

Rouel is the Principal Dentist at New Leaf Dentists in Erina, NSW, known for his gentle, patient-focused care. He holds a Doctor of Dental Medicine and a Postgraduate Diploma in Digital Orthodontics, with interests in endodontics, prosthodontics and minimally invasive dentistry. Rouel is committed to ongoing education, contributes to CPD training, and currently serves as President (2024–2026) of the Filipino Australian Dental Association.

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