Identifying Causes of Bad Breath
Stinky breath comes from odorous compounds released when naturally occurring bacteria in our mouths break down food with particles that linger in between teeth, gum lines, and, especially, on the tongue.
How do you get stinky breath?
You notice this when you wake up in the morning – long hours of peaceful sleep have slowed down saliva production in the mouth that bacteria take advantage of to multiply. Morning halitosis is temporary only until you brush your teeth and have fresh breath again.
Are you a mouth breather?
If you breathe through your mouth while sleeping your saliva evaporates and that can dry out your mouth. Some people who routinely exercise also tend to breathe through their mouths. Mouth breathers tend to have more cavities so dental hygiene and regular hydration becomes more important to these types.
Some smelly foods can cause bad breath.
Two of the most notorious are garlic and onions, while others are spices, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and radishes. Their smell can still linger in the mouth hours after they’re consumed, like coming up as a huge burp or two. Bad breath from food can occasionally come from the GI tract, not just your mouth. After digestion, food chemicals are absorbed into the bloodstream and enter the lungs, where they are later exhaled.
Smoking cigarettes and cigars increases the amount of odor-producing compounds in a person’s mouth and lungs, but the habit can also dry out the mouth, leading to lower saliva production and then to cavities. Certain medications – like some antihistamines, diuretics, antipsychotics, and muscle relaxants – you can also experience dry mouth syndrome. Since taking them is unavoidable, be sure you clean your tongue regularly and stay hydrated.
People on a low-carb diet may have increased levels of halitosis. The “keto breath” is a very common side effect of eating high-fat, low-carb meals. And while it might be very unpleasant, it’s actually a sign that your body is in ketosis, the fat-burning state that is the goal of the keto plan.
People who suffer from reflux disease, especially the type called Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease or GERD, when stomach contents periodically go up the esophagus and manifest as heartburn, can have halitosis. The acidic contents can damage the esophageal lining, cause some erosion on enamel surfaces of teeth, and leave residue on the tongue and other oral structures.
Other causes of bad breath are also commonly unsuspected. The presence of cavities, poorly maintained dental braces or dentures, and consuming a lot of alcohol. If you suffer from this condition, consult your dentist right away.
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