Understanding The Main Halitosis Causes

The type of food you eat, unhealthy dental and other lifestyle habits are root Halitosis causes. While these are the major causes, it is essential to have an in depth understanding of Halitosis, a medical term for bad breath, so that appropriate remedial action can be taken.

Halitosis Causes: Your Diet

Food items with strong odor are primary halitosis causes.  Items that come under this category include garlic, onion, alcohol, some types of fish, certain spices etc. The reason these food items result in bad breath is that after entering the blood stream and getting transferred into the lungs, they are exhaled with a bad odor.

If your diet primarily contains low carb products, it can also be a halitosis cause as it results in a condition known as ‘Ketone Breath’. Since the diet is low on carbohydrates, the body burns fat as its energy source, the final products of which are ketones. As a result, there can be an acetone-like odour when you exhale.

Halitosis Causes: Unhealthy Habits

It should come as no surprise that irregular brushing and flossing of your teeth is another root Halitosis cause. If food particles are not removed from your mouth, it may eventually lead to a Halitosis condition, resulting in you exhaling bad odour. These food particles can be a further cause for concern, as it may end up causing bacterial growth. Not only might this lead to tooth aches and decay, but it might also result in Halitosis.

Another halitosis cause is having a dry mouth. If your mouth is dry, it results in a decreased flow of saliva. Since saliva is an antibacterial agent that is vital to removing particles in your mouth that cause bad odour, lack of it will result in a halitosis condition. Usually dry mouth is caused due to inhaling through the mouth, or even due to some medications.

Consuming tobacco products on a regular basis is also one of the main Halitosis causes.  If you frequently smoke or chew tobacco products, you are highly likely to exhale bad odour, apart from leading to yellowing of your teeth and maybe even decay.

 Halitosis Causes: Medical Disorders

There are certain medical disorders, which might also be a Halitosis cause, and hence result in foul mouth odour. Some medical conditions that commonly lead to exhaling bad odour include throat infections such as tonsillitis, infections in the respiratory tract, bronchitis, gum infection etc. At times even conditions such as kidney diseases, diabetes, and lactose intolerance might lead to foul mouth odour.

Certain dental appliances might also be a halitosis cause. If you are taking dental treatment, and using dentures or braces, there is a chance that it may lead to halitosis. Often food particles are not properly removed from appliances such as braces, which eventually rot and lead to bad breath. If these appliances are not well fitted, it may even lead to infections in your mouth, which certainly is another halitosis cause!