Halitosis, known as bad breath, is an uncomfortable condition that disturbs a person and can adversely affect their daily life. The reason for the odor in the mouth is usually due to the person’s inability to maintain adequate oral hygiene. However, despite the provision of oral hygiene, halitosis may develop due to other diseases.

What causes halitosis?

Generally, it is physiologically normal to have an irritating odor in the morning. It is the result of food accumulation in the previous evening. This odor is not permanent and will dissipate after dental brushing and oral care.

• Dental health habits may cause halitosis and can also indicate other health problems. Bad breath can worsen by the types of food you eat and other unhealthy lifestyle habits.
• It is imperative to brush teeth, use dental floss, and mouthwash daily in terms of oral care. Food particles may remain between the unbrushed teeth.
• Food residue between the teeth causes bacteria growth around the gums and on the tongue, causing bad breath.
• Persistent bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth can also be a sign of gum (periodontal) disease.
• Plaque build-up on the teeth and toxins that irritate the gums can cause gum disease.

What causes bad breath even after brushing?

• Intraoral fungal infections.
• Tooth decays (cavities).
• Sinusitis.
• Tonsillitis.
• Stomach and intestinal system diseases.
• Prolonged hunger.
• Alcohol use.
• Smoking and tobacco products.
• Dry mouth.
• Diabetes.
• Kidney ailments.
• Nasal diseases.

Is bad breath a sign of illness?

The answer to this question is yes. There are mouth odors caused by pathological conditions. Halitosis can be a sign for many diseases such as:

• Tooth decay.
• Sinusitis.
• Angina.
• Throat diseases such as adenoid.
• Digestive system diseases, such as reflux and stomach ailments.
• Diabetes.
• Liver failure.
• Systemic diseases, such as kidney failure.

Especially the acetone-fruit odor in diabetics and the ammonia-like halitosis that occurs in kidney diseases are very significant.

What kind of treatment should I seek to get rid of bad breath?

• The underlying cause of bad breath may be poor oral hygiene. In this case, simple methods such as daily cleaning of teeth and using dental floss and mouthwash can solve the issue.
• You should brush your teeth 3 times a day and at least 2 minutes using fluoride toothpaste.
• After each meal, you should clean any food residue with dental floss. If necessary, you should use antibacterial mouthwashes.
• Using a tongue cleaning brush, clean the accumulated bacteria during the day.
• Less water consumption during the day is also one of the factors that can cause bad breath. Drinking water stimulates the production of saliva, which helps to clean bacteria.
• If you use a prosthetic tooth, you should remove it at night and thoroughly cleaned it the next day before wearing it.
• Consider removing tartar once a year to avoid bad breath.
• If bad breath develops due to tooth decay or infection in the gums, your dentist can treat it by applying the most accurate treatment methods.

For healthy oral hygiene, it is recommended to have dental examinations twice a year. To protect your oral health, you can call Kings Dental Clinic for an appointment or fill in the form on our website for consulting.