Is Bad Breath a Sign of Illness?
Patients who have chronically bad breath are often concerned about the cause of the issue. Bad breath or halitosis can be the result of what they ate that day or forgetting to brush their teeth. It can also indicate something more serious or suggest that the patient has an illness or another oral health problem that needs to be addressed.
Causes
Bad breath is typically the result of neglect or poor oral hygiene. When food particles and debris accumulate over time, it results in the formation of plaque and harmful bacteria. In addition, the tongue can be the culprit of bad breath as it easily collects bacteria and isn’t always cleaned. Good oral hygiene is critical to maintain good oral health and prevent illnesses such as gum disease. Good oral hygiene includes brushing at least twice each day, daily flossing, and routine dental visits.
Diet
Some foods can negatively impact the breath. This includes things like onion, garlic, certain vegetables, and spices, which may be used to add flavor. Food particles enter the bloodstream and are then carried to the lungs, where bad odor is eliminated through the breath.
Another common cause of bad breath can be coffee, which can have a strong flavor. When patients drink large amounts of coffee, it can also minimize saliva production. A dry mouth allows for an overgrowth of bacteria that results in a bad odor. The lack of saliva also allows for food particles to remain in the mouth for longer periods of time, adding to the bad breath.
When patients consume large amounts of sugar or protein in their regular diet, this can also cause bad breath. Lots of sugar aids in the buildup of plaque. These large amounts of sugar, combined with bacteria that are already present in the mouth, can cause halitosis. It can also be challenging for the body to digest large amounts of protein. It is important for patients to focus on eating a balanced, nutritious diet to help maintain good health and avoid bad breath.
Lifestyle Habits
Another possible cause of bad breath is the consumption of alcohol. Drinking alcohol frequently or consuming it in large amounts can negatively impact the body’s ability to produce saliva. This can create an environment for odor-causing bacteria to thrive and ultimately result in bad breath. Another lifestyle habit that can impact the breath is the use of tobacco products and smoking. In addition to bad breath, this puts patients at risk for other serious health problems and illnesses. Patients who smoke are also at an increased risk for gum disease.
Digestion
Digestion issues, constipation, acid reflux, or an obstructed bowel can also cause bad breath. These types of problems can cause bad odors from food or beverages that were recently consumed. Patients with bad breath caused by digestive issues may need to work with a primary care provider in addition to their dentist to ensure the issue is resolved.
Dry Mouth
Saliva plays an important role in a patient’s oral health as it removes food particles and debris. When these things are not removed, they can cause bad breath and negatively impact the patient’s oral health. Less saliva is produced while we are asleep. This is why most people have stinky breath when they wake up in the morning. Certain medications can also result in a dry mouth. Patients who are concerned about a dry mouth should follow up with the dentist to determine how to resolve the issue.
Contact the office today if you are concerned about chronically bad breath. Our team can help determine the cause of the issue and work with you to ensure it is resolved.