What is the Root Cause of Bad Breath?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is an embarrassing condition that can lead to low self-confidence and anxiety. It is caused by a variety of factors, including poor oral hygiene, underlying health conditions, smoking habits, and certain foods. Inadequate oral hygiene is the most common cause of bad breath. Practicing good oral hygiene can help improve bad breath in many cases.

If your dentist finds that your mouth is healthy and suspects that the cause of bad breath is not oral in origin, other factors may be to blame. The main symptom of halitosis is a bad smell from the mouth that is considered to be beyond a socially acceptable level. Poor oral hygiene can also lead to other oral health conditions, such as tooth decay and gum disease, which are also associated with bad breath. A diet high in sugar can also cause bad breath due to the way that sugars interact with existing bacteria in the mouth.

If you are concerned about your breath, it is important to ask a close friend or family member to confirm your suspicions about bad breath. Halitosis is a very common and treatable condition in many adults, so it is important to seek treatment if you think you may have it.