Bad breath, also called halitosis, affects approximately one-fourth of adults on a regular basis. It is caused by a variety of factors, from simple dry mouth to more significant problems in the throat. Serious health problems are sometimes accompanied by halitosis. Prolonged periods of constant bad breath are not normal, and in such cases a doctor should be consulted for an examination.
Mouth Problems
Bad breath is typically created by eating onions or garlic, but it also results from gum disease, tooth decay, food between the teeth, excessively dry mouth or a massive buildup on the tongue due to postnasal drip from colds or allergies. Throat or tonsil infections many also be the cause. The American Dental Association warns that periodontal (gum) disease is a leading cause of foul breath odor.
Airway Problems
Dryness of the throat is associated with breath odor. The Mayo Clinic states that chronic lung conditions, such as bronchitis, or lung diseases that include pneumonia may cause bad breath. A fishy breath odor may indicate problems with the liver, and a urine-like smell from the mouth can mean kidney problems, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Esophagus Problems
Esophagus problems, according to the Mayo Clinic, are another frequent cause of bad breath. Gastroesophageal reflux disease, sometime referred to as GERD, can create mouth odor. Diseases of the throat, such as esophageal caner, also contribute to bad breath. The National Institutes of Health warns that cancer is not the most common cause of bad breath, but esophageal cancer, also known as Barrett's esophagus, is common in people with GERD and is associated with breath odor.
Treatment
The causes of bad breath must be identified before they can be treated. Consult a dentist to determine the problem. Once the causes are identified, arrange an appointment to have the mouth professionally cleaned. An additional visit to a dental specialist, such as a periodontist, may be required for further examinations, according to the ADA. If the cause of the mouth odor is determined to be something other than the mouth or teeth, a referral to a medical doctor is required.
Proper Mouth Care
Good oral hygiene includes regular brushing, flossing and the use of a tongue cleaner. The NIH recommends using mouthwash before bedtime to remove germs from the mouth. Avoidance of the basic causes, including foods that cause bad breath like coffee as well as elimination of the use of tobacco products, is an easy cure. Brushing and cleaning the tongue after eating foods that cling to teeth and gums (such as meat, milk products and fish), and chewing sugarless gum when the mouth is dry are additional recommendations from the NIH and the Mayo Clinic. The ADA adds another recommendation that includes regular cleanings by a trained professional and visiting the dentist on a regular basis to have teeth examined to ensure teeth and gums are healthy.
