What Causes Bad Breath and How to Get Rid of It

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, is an unpleasant odor that can come from the mouth. It is usually caused by poor oral hygiene, but it can also be a sign of other health problems. In some cases, bad breath can be caused by a buildup of bacteria in the mouth, sinus infections, postnasal drip, or even liver or kidney disease. The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene.

This includes not brushing and flossing regularly, as well as not cleaning dentures or other dental appliances properly. Eating certain foods, such as garlic and onions, can also cause bad breath. In addition, smoking and drinking alcohol can contribute to bad breath. In people with liver or kidney disease, toxic substances are not eliminated from the body as they should be.

This can lead to a chronic odor in the breath known as hepatic fetor. Respiratory tract infections can also cause bad breath due to nasal or sinus secretions that pass into the oropharynx. Tonsillitis and tonsil stones can also be causes of halitosis. Foreign bodies in the nose can also produce a strong odor in the breath.

Bronchiectasis and other lung infections, such as cancer, can also cause bad breath.In addition to poor oral hygiene, sinusitis, nasal polyps, and postnasal drip can cause bad breath due to the accumulation of microbes, foreign objects, and metabolites that cause bad breath. Women may experience bad breath during their menstrual cycle due to lower levels of saliva.The best way to get rid of bad breath is to practice good oral hygiene. This includes brushing your teeth twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily. It is also important to clean dentures or other dental appliances regularly.

Drinking plenty of water and avoiding foods that cause bad breath can also help reduce bad breath.If you are still experiencing bad breath after practicing good oral hygiene, it may be a sign of another health problem. In this case, it is important to see your doctor for further evaluation. Your doctor may recommend additional tests or treatments depending on the underlying cause of your bad breath.