Bad breath can be caused by something as simple as what you eat, or can signify a deeper oral health or medical issue. Below we’ve described the common causes of bad breath or halitosis.
Oral Hygiene
Most bad breath is caused by poor oral hygiene. If you don’t brush and floss regularly, food particles can buildup in your mouth and a sticky buildup of bacteria, called plaque, will form. Even the ridges of your tongue and teeth can harbor food particles and produce bad breath. Poor oral hygiene can even lead to bigger issues such as cavities and gum disease, all of which lead to bad breath. Maintaining proper oral hygiene is the best way to prevent these issues.
Food and Drink
Eating certain foods, particularly ones that contain things like onions, garlic, certain spices, etc., will cause odor-causing particles to enter the bloodstream. These particles are then carried to the lungs and will cause an odor to erupt each time you exhale.
If you’re a big fan of starting your morning off with a cup of joe, be warned — this drink can trigger bad breath! Not only is this due to coffee’s intense flavor, but the drink also has an affect on saliva production as well, causing a decline in saliva. This in turn dries out your mouth and causes an increase in odor-causing bacteria.
Ever hear of keto breath? Research has shown that eating a high protein, low carb diet can cause bad breath as your body’s metabolism is impacted and changed. Avoid this by eating a balanced diet, rich in a variety of vitamins and minerals.
Digestive Issues
Unfortunately, poor digestion, bowel disorders, and constipation can also have an affect on your breath. This typically occurs when recently consumed foods make their way back up your esophagus and out the mouth, resulting in bad breath. Addressing these health issues should resolve your bad breath in time.
Dry Mouth
Saliva plays an important role in keeping your breath fresh! Did you know that saliva keeps your mouth clean by removing food particles that lead to bad breath? When the production of saliva is slowed down, bad breath occurs. This can happen when you’re dehydrated, after eating certain foods, or even taking certain medications. Be sure to get in plenty of fluids throughout the day to prevent this!
