The Facts About Bad Breath

Don’t ignore it—it can signal underlying health problems

No one wants to admit to having bad breath (halitosis)—it’s socially embarrassing! But to a large extent, you can control this unpleasant little health problem. And it’s worth your attention; persistent halitosis may signal something more serious.

One of the most common causes of bad breath is bacteria in your mouth, says dentist Sophia Kladias, D.M.D., of Lehigh Valley Hospital and Health Network. If you don’t practice good oral hygiene, leftover food particles promote the growth of bacteria on teeth, gums and tongue, and the bacteria produce bad-smelling sulfur compounds. Eventually, plaque builds up on teeth and you develop gum disease (gingivitis). “Masking the problem with chewing gum, candy mints or sweet rinses can do more harm than good,” Kladias says. “Bacteria just feed off the sugar.”

The other classic breath-destroyer is strong-smelling foods like garlic and onions. As they’re digested and absorbed into your bloodstream, the odors are given off by your breath. They won’t go completely away until the offending food has passed through your system.

Dry mouth, or a shortage of saliva, also can cause halitosis. Saliva acts as a natural cleansing agent, and when you don’t produce enough—due to medication side effects, salivary gland problems or sleeping with your mouth open—your breath will tell you so.

Persistent bad breath can be a warning sign of a variety of illnesses, including chronic sinus infection or postnasal drip, respiratory problems like bronchitis, and acid reflux (GERD; see story on page 20). Systemic diseases like diabetes or kidney disease produce a distinctive type of bad breath called ketoacidosis, says Kladias’ colleague, family medicine physician Suzanne Widmer, D.O. “You’ll notice a fruity flavor or smell,” she says. “It’s your body’s way of telling you something is wrong.”

Clearly, you need to see your doctor in cases like that. But for the most part, you can prevent bad breath if you:

Brush and floss faithfully. Brush your teeth and tongue twice a day, and floss daily to remove particles and plaque between teeth. Mouthwash is helpful if it’s an antiseptic brand.

See your dentist regularly for a professional cleaning and exam to detect and treat gum disease, dry mouth and other problems.

Steer clear of onions and garlic before social occasions. (The rest of the time, enjoy these healthy foods.)

Avoid tobacco products. Smoking or chewing tobacco definitely affects your breath.

Drink plenty of water. It helps keep your mouth moist (among many other health benefits).

Want to Know More about basic tooth care, gum disease or Lehigh Valley Hospital’s Tobacco Treatment Program? Click above.

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