Why Do People Have Bad Breath—and How to Resolve It
Aug 24, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhang Liwen
Introduction
Bad breath can be alleviated by measures such as drinking plenty of water. Some individuals rarely drink water due to extremely busy work schedules, which may sometimes lead to dry mouth during work hours. When breathing through the mouth, they may become aware of their bad breath. However, this situation is uncommon among people who regularly drink water. Adequate water intake promotes sufficient salivary secretion in the oral cavity and keeps the throat consistently moist.
In daily life and work—whether interacting with colleagues, friends, or family members—close conversation and communication are inevitable. At such times, concerns about one’s own or the other person’s halitosis (bad breath) can cause embarrassment and discomfort for both parties. So, what causes halitosis, and how can it be effectively addressed?
Causes of Halitosis and Practical Solutions
Halitosis can often be alleviated by simple measures such as increasing water intake. Some individuals rarely drink water, especially when overwhelmed by a demanding work schedule. This may lead to xerostomia (dry mouth) during work hours; when breathing through the mouth, one may become acutely aware of unpleasant oral odor. In contrast, people who maintain regular hydration seldom experience this issue. Adequate water consumption promotes sufficient salivary secretion and keeps the throat moist. Saliva helps inhibit bacterial proliferation in the oral cavity, thereby reducing halitosis. Therefore, cultivating healthy hydration habits is essential—consistency is key. Once established as part of your daily routine, proper hydration becomes second nature.
This type of halitosis is primarily attributable to oral health issues. Dental caries (tooth decay) or retained tooth roots frequently serve as breeding grounds for oral malodor. The underlying mechanism involves food debris becoming trapped in dental cavities, where bacteria ferment and decompose the residue, generating foul-smelling compounds. Similarly, patients with gingivitis or periodontitis commonly experience persistent oral malodor. During oral inflammation, salivary flow decreases while bacterial replication accelerates—resulting in notably severe odor.
Patients should pay close attention to their dietary habits: consuming ample vegetables and fruits is recommended, while spicy or hard-to-digest foods should be minimized. A light, balanced diet is ideal for maintaining oral and overall health. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
