Bad breath, also called halitosis, is a common condition and
sometimes a distressing source of embarrassment. Frequently, people
aren’t even aware there’s a problem. While there are many causes
for bad breath, it most commonly results from a lack of good oral
hygiene. Daily brushing and flossing and regular dental checkups and
cleanings are the best prevention for bad breath.
However, when bad breath persists, despite good oral health, there
may be other reasons for mouth odor and a consultation with your
dentist or physician is in order.

The odor may result from the air you exhale.

Aromatic foods, especially garlic and onions, are often the source of
breath odor. Food that is absorbed into the bloodstream is transferred
to the lungs, where it is expelled, often with the odor still recognizable.
Brushing, flossing and mouthwash will only mask the odor temporarily.
Odors continue until the body eliminates the food. Additionally,
during the digestion process, the odor may make its way back up the
esophagus and is expelled during talking and breathing.
Sometimes odors emanating from the lungs or sinuses will contribute
to bad breath. A sinus infection, bronchitis, or other respiratory
tract infection can sometimes be detected through breath odor.
Furthermore, post-nasal drip that collects at the back of the throat can
be a source of mouth odor. Gargling mouthwash can help wash away
fluids that coat the throat, reducing this effect.
Tobacco use is another common source of mouth odor, as the tobacco
smoke is inhaled, so it is exhaled. If you use tobacco products, consult
with your dentist for advice and support on how to quit.

A dry mouth may be the culprit.

Good saliva flow cleanses the teeth and tissues, and is essential to
keeping the mouth healthy and in balance. A common side effect
of many medications is reduced saliva flow, which results in a dry
mouth (also called xerostomia) and increased mouth odor. Dry mouth
may also be caused by other problems involving the salivary glands
or from continuously breathing through the mouth. Several over-the counter products are available for xerostomia and your
dentist can advise you on the best way to manage this condition.

There are other medical conditions that contribute to
mouth odor.

Beyond infections of the sinuses and lungs, there are other medical
conditions that can sometimes be detected through mouth odor. These
include diabetes, gastrointestinal disturbances and liver or kidney
ailments. If your dentist determines that your mouth is
healthy, you may be referred to your family doctor or a specialist to
determine the cause of bad breath.

What else can I do?

The best control for mouth odor is good oral hygiene. Mouthwashes
and breath sprays are mostly cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting
effect. Additionally, breath mints generally contain sugar or citric
acid and, when allowed to dissolve slowly in the mouth are decay
producing. These products should be used sparingly. If you constantly
use one of these products to mask mouth odor, see your
dentist.

The website first appeared at CDA.org