What Is Bad Breath?
- Fysiobasen
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Bad breath refers to an unpleasant odor that arises in one’s breath. It may originate from the mouth, teeth, throat, or respiratory tract.
In most cases, the odor results from bacteria breaking down food particles and dead cells inside the mouth, producing volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) — the main culprits behind unpleasant breath.
Benefits of Identifying the Cause
Makes it easier to treat and prevent bad breath effectively
Improves oral hygiene and overall health
Reduces social discomfort and enhances quality of life
Limitations and Challenges
It can be difficult to notice one’s own bad breath, as we adapt to familiar smells. Additionally, halitosis may have multiple simultaneous causes, and some cases require medical evaluation to rule out deeper health issues.
Common Causes of Bad Breath
Poor Oral Hygiene
The most common cause of halitosis is insufficient brushing and flossing. This allows bacteria to accumulate on the teeth, gums, and tongue, producing volatile sulfur compounds that create a foul odor.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Saliva naturally helps wash away bacteria and neutralize acids. When saliva production is low — for example, during sleep, dehydration, or due to medication — bacterial growth increases and odor intensifies.
Food and Drink
Garlic, onions, spicy foods, coffee, and alcohol can all cause temporary bad breath. The smell doesn’t only come from the mouth but also from metabolites exhaled through the lungs.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis)
Infections in the gums create deep pockets where anaerobic bacteria thrive. These bacteria release sulfur gases that contribute to strong odor and inflammation.
Tongue Coating
The tongue’s rough surface traps food debris and bacteria. A white or yellowish coating on the tongue is a common source of persistent bad breath.
Infections and Medical Conditions
Sinus infections, tonsillitis, respiratory infections, and acid reflux can contribute to bad breath. In rare cases, systemic diseases like diabetes or kidney failure can cause characteristic odors in the breath.
How Can You Tell If You Have Bad Breath?
Ask a trusted person for honest feedback
Try the “hand test”: lick the back of your hand, let it dry, and smell
Scrape your tongue and smell the residue
Some dentists use specialized halimeters to measure sulfur gas levels in breath
How to Prevent Bad Breath
Brush teeth thoroughly twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
Floss or use interdental brushes daily
Clean the tongue with a scraper
Drink water regularly to maintain saliva flow
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol, coffee, and sugary drinks
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and exams
When to See a Dentist or Doctor
Persistent bad breath despite good oral hygiene
Visible tongue coating, bleeding gums, or loose teeth
Accompanying symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, reflux, or stomach pain
Long-term medication use causing dry mouth and ongoing odor issues
Summary
Bad breath is most often caused by bacteria in the mouth, especially on the tongue and between teeth. Other causes include dry mouth, gum disease, and certain foods or habits.
Persistent bad breath may signal an underlying health problem. Fortunately, most cases can be managed with proper oral hygiene, hydration, and routine dental care. When that’s not enough, professional treatment can identify and eliminate the root cause.
Sources
Tangerman A. (2002). Halitosis in medicine: a review. Int Dent J, 52(S5):201–206.
Porter SR, Scully C. (2006). Oral malodour (halitosis). BMJ, 333(7569):632–635.
Tonzetich J. (1977). Production and origin of oral malodor: mechanisms and methods of analysis. J Periodontol, 48(1):13–20.
Ship JA, Pillemer SR, Baum BJ. (2002). Xerostomia and the geriatric patient. J Am Geriatr Soc, 50(3):535–543.
Pedrazzi V, et al. (2004). Tongue-cleaning methods: a comparative clinical trial employing a toothbrush and a tongue scraper. J Periodontol, 75(7):1009–1012.
Tangerman A, Winkel EG. (2010). Extra-oral halitosis: an overview. J Breath Res, 4(1):017003.
