Bad breath is an unpleasant condition that does not discriminate against anyone and can force even the most confident person to retreat silently.
When you are doing great in a job interview and the other person suddenly leans back, your partner tries to keep their distance during a romantic date or people turn their faces away on public transport… All these show how bad breath sneaks into our social lives. So, what are the reasons for this unwanted situation and how can it be prevented? Dentist Niran Uluçay explained bad breath and its causes
Bad Breath (Halitosis) and Its Causes
Bad breath (halitosis) is a common problem experienced by many people and can negatively affect social life. The most common cause is bacteria in the mouth. Inadequate oral hygiene, tooth decay, gum disease, bacteria accumulated on the surface of the tongue and tartar can cause bad breath. However, bad breath does not always only originate from the mouth; some systemic disorders can also cause this condition.
Bad breath originating from outside the mouth
Stomach problems: Reflux (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease, or GERD) can cause stomach acid to leak back up into the esophagus, causing a sour, foul odor in the mouth. Conditions such as a stomach ulcer or Helicobacter pylori infection can also be associated with bad breath.
Intestinal problems: Some disorders related to the digestive system, especially constipation and intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), can cause bad breath. Toxic gases accumulated in the intestines mix with the blood and are expelled through breathing, which can cause bad breath to occur independently of oral hygiene.
Respiratory tract infections: Conditions such as sinusitis, tonsillitis, bronchitis or lung infections can cause bad breath due to the buildup of mucus and bacteria. Bad breath can become chronic, especially in people with tonsil stones (tonsillitis).
Metabolic diseases: Diseases such as diabetes, liver or kidney failure can also cause bad breath. In patients with diabetes, a sweet, acetone-like odor may occur due to ketoacidosis, while people with kidney failure may experience an ammonia-like breath odor.
Medication use and dry mouth: Medications that reduce saliva production, such as antidepressants, antihistamines, and some blood pressure medications, can cause dry mouth (xerostomia) and worsen bad breath. Insufficient saliva allows bacteria in the mouth to multiply easily.
Ways to prevent bad breath
To prevent bad breath, oral hygiene should be taken care of first. Brushing teeth at least twice a day, using dental floss and cleaning the tongue prevents the accumulation of bacteria in the mouth. In addition, thanks to regular dentist check-ups, cavities and gum diseases can be diagnosed and treated early.
For bad breath originating from outside the mouth, it is important to determine the underlying cause. Treating stomach and intestinal problems, controlling respiratory infections, and changing medications if necessary can reduce bad breath. Drinking plenty of water prevents dry mouth by increasing saliva secretion and can alleviate bad breath.
If bad breath persists for a long time and does not go away despite good oral hygiene, it would be useful to consult a dentist or relevant specialist.