What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Foul-Smelling Breath
• Halitosis

What is Bad Breath? (Definition/Background Information)

• Bad Breath is a very common oral condition that affects a majority of the human population. It is frequently the result of poor oral hygiene. The condition is also known as Halitosis
• It may be aggravated by certain lifestyle and food habits including smoking or chewing tobacco, and the type of foods one eats (strong-odor foods), or the presence of tooth cavities
• Bad Breath may be also associated with some underlying health condition, chiefly gum disease. Untreated gum disease over time can severely damage teeth and even the jawbones
• The treatment of Bad Breath involves treating the underlying conditions (such as gum disease) and the use of prescription mouth washes and oral gels. With adequate treatment, the prognosis is typically good

Who gets Bad Breath? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Bad Breath is quite common and it is reported to affect 20-25% of the individuals worldwide
• Children and adults are known to be affected
• Both males and females are affected and no predilection to either gender is noted
• No racial, ethnic, or geographical predominance is observed

What are the Risk Factors for Bad Breath? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Bad Breath include:

• Eating foods containing onions and garlic
• Smoking and chewing tobacco; use of illegal drugs
• Dry mouth: It can occur due to certain medications, diseases, salivary gland conditions, or radiation treatment for cancer. In some, sleeping with open mouth and/or continuously breathing through the mouth can result in dry mouth
• Gum disease and dental cavities
• Fungal mouth infections
• Lung infections affecting the respiratory tract
• Certain kidney and liver conditions
• Chronic acid reflux (GERD)
• Long-term sinusitis
• Poorly-controlled diabetes
• Aging causes dryness in the mouth leading to Bad Breath
• Ill-fitting dental devices that promote bacterial growth
• Eating disorders

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Bad Breath? (Etiology)

The main cause of Bad Breath is poor dental care and oral hygiene. Lack of regular brushing and flossing can cause bacterial growth in food particles/debris that remain in mouth (between the teeth and gums), leading to Bad Breath.

However, it can also occur due to numerous other factors including:

• Eating foods containing onions and garlic may cause strong odors to emanate from mouth, which can stay in the mouth till the food is digested and passed out from the body
• Certain medications and illnesses
• Xerostomia or dry mouth
• Aging
• Poor oral care can promote bacterial growth in implants, dental bridges, and dentures

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Bad Breath?            

The signs and symptoms of Bad Breath may include:

• Foul smell from the mouth
• Dryness in the mouth
• Symptoms of underlying conditions, if any

How is Bad Breath Diagnosed?

A Bad Breath is diagnosed using the following methods:

• A complete physical examination of the mouth and teeth
• Assessment of medical history including the presence of any underlying conditions, medicines one is currently taking, etc.
• Check function of salivary glands and assess flow of saliva (with or without stimulation)

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Bad Breath?

Complications due to Bad Breath may include:

• Reduced self-esteem
• Difficulties in close social interactions
• Complications that result from an underlying illness

How is Bad Breath Treated?

The treatment for Bad Breath may include:

• Treatment of underlying disorders causing Bad Breath including gum disease and other dental conditions
• Use of suitable prescription oral rinses, toothpastes, and antiseptic mouthwashes
• Drinking lots of water and fluids
• Modifying one’s food and lifestyle habits

How can Bad Breath be Prevented?

The following measures may be considered to prevent the incidence of Bad Breath:

• Avoid tobacco (smoking or chewing)
• Maintain good oral care through regular brushing, flossing, use of suitable mouthwash
• Undertake regular dental visits; professional teeth cleaning
• Keep mouth moist - drink plenty of water
• Stimulate saliva by chewing on gum (sugar-free)
• Avoid foods that cause bad breath
• Check with physician if any medications are causing Bad Breath

What is the Prognosis of Bad Breath? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Bad Breath depends on the underlying cause. However, it is generally good with suitable treatment.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Bad Breath:

Please visit our Dental Health Center for more physician-approved health information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/dental-health/