The bad odor wafting from the mouth of the person standing by you isn't designed to offend--although it often does. In fact, the American Dental Association points out that some people with bad breath don't even know that the smell causes others around them to take a few steps back. Although there are any number of causes of bad breath, the most common cause is neglecting good oral hygiene.
Oral Hygiene
Bacteria thrive in your mouth, especially on the back of your tongue, according to the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. In most cases, this is what causes people to have bad breath, or halitosis. When food particles get trapped between the teeth, they eventually decay and release hydrogen sulfide, the same smell associated with rotting eggs. Brushing your teeth infrequently or inadequately and failing to floss may be the cause of halitosis.
Bad Breath and Food
Certain foods have an intimate association with bad breath, especially those that contain pungent, volatile oils such as onion and garlic. MayoClinic.com explains that when you eat these foods, the oils are released into your blood, where they then travel to your lungs. Breath mints, mouthwash and gum can mask the odor, but you'll continue to exhale a malodorous reminder of last night's Italian buffet until the food is completely eliminated from your body.
Morning Breath
Unpleasant "morning breath" is a normal type of halitosis, explains the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Xerostomia, or dry mouth, results when your salivary glands are less active, which is usually when you sleep, although taking certain medications can also cause a dry mouth. Without your saliva to wash away particles that cause decay, bad breath-causing bacteria flourish.
Dental Problems and Health Concerns
Poor oral hygiene can eventually lead to dental problems such as periodontal disease, which can cause long-standing bad breath until treated, notes MayoClinic.com. Sinus infections, respiratory illnesses and sore throat can also result in bad breath. Certain chronic medical conditions can also cause what is known as extra-oral halitosis and are often associated with characteristic breath odor. People whose diabetes is unchecked may have a fruity breath odor. Those with kidney or liver disease may have a fishy or urine-like breath odor. However, extra-oral halitosis is rare, says the clinic, accounting for only 10 percent of cases of bad breath.
Other Causes
In addition to foods and beverages, other external factors can cause bad breath, including smoking and using chewing tobacco, says Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Tobacco users are more likely to have gum disease as well, according to MayoClinic.com.
Treatment for Bad Breath
Often getting rid of bad breath is as easy as brushing the teeth twice a day, using dental floss and avoiding known causes of bad breath, such as tobacco products and foods and beverages that are known contributors. However, when bad breath won't go away, this may be a cause for concern. The National Institutes of Health advises that you see a medical professional if halitosis persists even with good oral hygiene or if you have signs of a respiratory infection, such as nasal discharge, cough and fever.
