Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is an unpleasant odor from the mouth, often caused by poor dental hygiene and bacteria. Some health issues and consuming certain foods can contribute to this embarrassing condition. Regular brushing, flossing, tongue cleaning, drinking water, and maintaining good oral health can help prevent bad breath. If the issue persists, it may indicate an underlying health problem. Individuals should consult a dentist or doctor for further evaluation and treatment.

Symptoms of bad breath
Determining bad breath symptoms is vital to addressing the causes and seeking appropriate treatment to improve oral hygiene and overall health. Here are the indications of bad breath:

• Unpleasant odor from the mouth that persists
• Foul-smelling breath, especially in the morning or after having certain foods containing garlic and onions
• An unpleasant or metallic taste in the mouth
• Dry mouth or decreased saliva production
• A coating on the tongue or a white or yellow tongue
• Bad breath does not improve despite regular oral hygiene practices.
• Others comment on the presence of bad breath
• Chronic bad breath that doesn’t go away with temporary measures

Causes of bad breath
Identifying and addressing the root causes through improved oral hygiene, lifestyle changes, and professional dental care can help prevent and treat bad breath effectively. Here are some reasons for halitosis:

• Poor dental hygiene leads to the buildup of plaque and food particles in the mouth, leading to bad breath.
• Certain foods, such as garlic, onions, and spices, can release foul-smelling sulfur compounds when digested.
• Certain products can contribute to bad breath and gum disease.
• Dry mouth (xerostomia), caused by reduced saliva production, allows bacteria to thrive in the mouth.
• Certain infections in the mouth, tooth decay, and gum disease (gingivitis or periodontitis) can cause bad breath.
• Medical conditions like respiratory infections, sinusitis, diabetes, liver or kidney disorders, and gastrointestinal problems can lead to bad breath.
• Certain treatment options can cause dry mouth or release chemicals that affect breath odor.
• Poorly fitting dental appliances and yeast infections in the mouth can also contribute to bad breath.

Diagnosis and treatment of bad breath

Diagnosing the cause of bad breath involves a dental examination. Your dentist will assess your oral health and check for signs of gum disease, tooth decay, and plaque buildup. They may also scrape the back of your tongue to evaluate any potential odor-causing bacteria.

The treatment of bad breath (halitosis) depends on the abovementioned reasons. Brushing and flossing regularly, using mouthwash, and scraping the tongue can help remove bacteria and food particles responsible for odor.

When gum disease is the reason, your dentist may refer you to a gum specialist (periodontist) for proper treatment. Managing the condition of dry mouth (xerostomia) is crucial to combating bad breath. Drinking plenty of water, using artificial saliva products, and addressing any underlying health issues causing the condition can be beneficial.

When to see a dentist
You should consider seeing a dentist or doctor if you experience persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, despite practicing good oral hygiene. Here are some situations that demand professional evaluation:

• Consistent bad breath
• Gum disease symptoms
• Frequent dry mouth
• Oral infections or sores
• Suspected medical conditions
• Regular check-ups

A dentist or doctor can identify the cause and create a personalized treatment plan for better oral and overall health.