Getting a Handle on Halitosis

Everyone has bad breath every once in a while. But halitosis is an oral health condition characterized by consistently odorous breath. While it is typically not harmful in and of itself, bad breath can be embarrassing and make one feel self-conscious in social situations. 

The Causes of Bad Breath

Often, figuring out the cause of bad breath is the first step toward treating this preventable condition. Here are some of the causes:

Certain foods. The foods we eat contribute to the smell of our breath.¹ Items such as garlic and onions—or any food, really—are absorbed into the bloodstream, become transferred into the lungs, and are expelled in the air you breathe.^{1, 3} Until the body eliminates it, the food has the potential to adversely affect your breath.¹

Poor oral health care. If you don’t brush at least twice a day and floss at least once a day, particles of food may remain in the mouth. These particles can become a breeding ground for bacteria, which, in turn, cause odorous breath.¹ Food that is allowed to collect on the teeth, around the gums, and on the tongue can rot, causing an unpleasant odor.¹

Improper cleaning of dentures. Dentures that are not cleaned properly may collect bacteria and food particles, which can cause bad breath. Removable dentures should be cleaned thoroughly each day.³

Xerostomia, or dry mouth. This condition, common among older adults, is characterized by a decrease in saliva flow, so saliva is unable to cleanse the mouth and remove debris and particles left behind by food.^{1, 2} Xerostomia may be caused by certain medications, a salivary gland disorder, or continuously breathing through the mouth.1

Tobacco products. Cigarettes, cigars, smokeless tobacco, and snuff all can contribute to bad breath.¹

Medical conditions. Bad breath may be an indicator or symptom of a respiratory infection, chronic sinusitis, postnasal drip, chronic bronchitis, diabetes, a gastrointestinal disturbance, or a liver or kidney problem.¹

Treating and Preventing Bad Breath

The treatment for halitosis depends on the exact cause. If you have bad breath, keep a journal of the foods you eat and any medications you are taking.¹ Then make an appointment to see your dental professional, who will try to determine the cause of your bad breath. If he or she determines that your mouth is healthy, you will want to see your physician.¹

To help prevent bad breath, follow good oral hygiene. Brush your teeth and tongue with a fluoride toothpaste gently, at least twice a day, with special attention to the gum line, and floss at least once a day.¹ Also, see your dental professional for regular cleanings and checkups.^{1, 3}

¹“Bad Breath (Halitosis).” American Dental Association.    www.ada.orgpublic/topics/bad_breath.asp Accessed 2008.

² “Dry Mouth.” American Dental Association. www.ada.org/public/topics/dry_mouth.asp Accessed 2008.

^{3 “}What Is Halitosis?” Academy of General Dentistry, March 30, 2007. www.agd.org/support/articles/?ArtID=1254  Accessed 2008.</>