The Causes of Bad Breath
There are several causes of bad breath or halitosis, but the main cause is oral bacteria. Also, anything that encourages the growth of oral bacteria causes bad breath. Bacteria produces waste containing sulfur compounds that produce an odor similar to the stench of rotten eggs. Some other less common compounds found in the waste are cadaverine, isovaleric acid, skatole, and putrescine. These all have their own distinct bad odors.
Here are some other possible causes of bad breath:
- Food
- Smoking
- Gum Disease
- Dentures
- Sinus Conditions
- Xerostomia
Effects of Food
Everyone know that onions and garlic can cause hideous breath all by themselves. This is caused by the release of molecules from the food in the body, specifically the lungs, as the digestive system breaks it down. Food only causes bad breath for a short period of time and is naturally cured by your body. Bad breath caused by food is easy to control - simply don't eat foods that cause bad breath.
Smoking
Smoking produces its own bad odor in someone's mouth, but it also contributes to two other causes - dry mouth (xerostomia) and gum disease. The only way to get rid of this odor is to stop smoking. However, it is possible to mask the odor with good oral hygiene if you just can't break the habit.
Gum Disease
Also known as periodontal disease, gum disease is a bacterial infection in the gum tissue around your teeth. This disease produces pockets between the gums and teeth that provide an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. The problem is that it is very difficult to clean these areas and get rid of the bacteria in them.
Dentures
Dentures and other items like retainers can harbor bacteria if they are not cleaned properly and often enough. Make sure to clean them often to avoid this possible source of bad breath.
Sinus Conditions
There are several reasons why sinus conditions can promote bad breath. First, post-nasal drip will collect on the back of the tongue and create its own foul odor while feeding the bacteria already in the mouth. Sinus conditions also cause you to breathe through your mouth which causes it to dry out. Also, if you are taking an antihistamine, it will promote mouth dryness as well.
Xerostomia
Chronic dry mouth or xerostomia enhances the conditions for bacteria to grow in your mouth. It prevents the benefits associated with oral moisture. Saliva helps kill bacteria, naturally washes the mouth, and dilutes the odors produced by the bacteria waste products. Medications and age often contribute to the condition of xerostomia.
http://www.gotbadbreath.com