What are the causes of bad breath?
Nov 28, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Chao
Introduction
In general, "mouth odor" refers to bad breath (halitosis), which may be caused by factors such as diet, poor oral hygiene, dental caries, gingivitis, or periodontitis. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. In daily life, maintain a healthy lifestyle, eat a balanced diet with light food, quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption, maintain good oral hygiene habits, exercise regularly, and undergo routine dental check-ups.
Generally speaking, bad breath refers to halitosis. Halitosis may be caused by dietary factors, poor oral hygiene, dental caries, gingivitis, periodontitis, and other reasons. If experiencing discomfort, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Dietary Factors
Eating foods with strong odors such as garlic and onions, or habits like drinking alcohol and smoking can cause temporary halitosis. Adjust dietary habits by reducing the intake of spicy and irritating foods, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, drinking more water, and maintaining a moist oral environment.
2. Poor Oral Hygiene
Irregular or inadequate tooth brushing can lead to food debris remaining in the mouth. Bacteria break down these residues, producing sulfur compounds that are the main source of halitosis. Improve oral hygiene by brushing teeth regularly with fluoride toothpaste at least twice daily for two minutes each time, using dental floss to clean between teeth, and visiting a dentist regularly for professional cleaning.
3. Dental Caries
Dental caries are caused by bacteria and food debris. Food particles and bacterial growth within cavities can produce unpleasant odors and may be accompanied by symptoms such as tooth pain, cavities, and tooth sensitivity. Professional dental treatment can restore tooth shape and function.
4. Gingivitis
Gingivitis is usually caused by dental plaque. Bacteria in plaque produce harmful substances that irritate the gums, causing redness, swelling, and bleeding, along with bad breath. Symptoms may include gum pain, bleeding, and swelling. Treatment options include professional dental cleaning to remove plaque and tartar. Additionally, anti-inflammatory medications such as metronidazole tablets, amoxicillin capsules, or cefradine capsules may be taken orally as directed by a physician.
5. Periodontitis
Periodontitis is a progression of gingivitis. Inflammation of the periodontal tissues leads to gum recession, formation of periodontal pockets, and bacterial proliferation within these pockets, causing unpleasant odors. Symptoms may include gum recession, periodontal pockets, alveolar bone resorption, and tooth mobility. Basic periodontal treatment includes scaling, root planing, and smoothing of root surfaces. Additionally, medications such as levofloxacin hydrochloride capsules, roxithromycin capsules, or ornidazole tablets may be taken orally as directed by a physician.
In daily life, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, avoiding heavy or spicy foods, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol consumption, maintaining good oral hygiene, exercising regularly, and undergoing routine dental checkups are recommended.
