There are several possibilities that can be the cause of bad breath. These can range from health problems, dietary habits, to tooth problems. Most of the problems can be found in the mouth. They include:
- Improper oral hygiene care
- Tongue (when bacteria grow between the papilla)
- Periodontal disease (gum infection)
- Tooth decay (especially when food particles get stuck in them
- Dentures/Partials when not cleaned properly
- Alcohol and tobacco
If you or someone you know is concerned about bad breath, the first action to take would be to make an appointment for a dental exam. Your dentist will be able to rule out or confirm the cause of bad breath.
Once the source is determined, treatment can then be diagnosed and explained by the dentist. Mouthwash, mints, or gum chewing can mask the situation but these things to not treat the underlying issue. Many times they can even exacerbate the problem (mouthwashes containing alcohol can lead to dry mouth and usually make bad breath worse).
This is a list of other non-dental related issues that can cause bad breath:
- Sinus problems
- Acid reflux
- Infections of the throat and/or lungs
- Eating disorders
- Some foods
The best way to prevent bad breath from occurring is to have good oral hygiene habits and make routine dental check-ups.