Main reasons for bad breath
Poor oral hygiene: If the mouth is not cleaned properly, food debris accumulates between the teeth and gums and bacteria grow. This releases foul-smelling gases.
Dental and gum diseases: Gum diseases (Gingivitis/Periodontitis) and cavities create a favorable environment for bacteria to grow.
Tongue coating: Cleaning the tongue is one of the things that many people neglect in oral hygiene. Dead cells and bacteria that accumulate on the tongue are a major cause of bad breath.
Foods: Eating onions, garlic, and some spices can cause bad breath. These are digested and reach the lungs through the bloodstream and are exhaled.
Dry Mouth/Xerostomia: When saliva production is low, it is difficult to clean the dead cells and bacteria in the mouth. The lack of saliva during sleep is the reason for bad breath when you wake up in the morning.
Smoking and drinking: These dry out the mouth and cause gum disease.
Other health problems:
Sinusitis/throat infection: Throat secretions can cause bad breath.
Digestive problems/gas: Acidity in the stomach or indigestion can come out as a foul odor through the lungs.
Diabetes/kidney/liver diseases: Certain types of odors (musty or ammonia-like odors) can be a symptom of these diseases.
