What causes bad breath?
The causes of bad breath (or halitosis) can vary from simply lifestyle and the food in your diet to more serious underlying health problems, such as gum disease and gum inflammation (gingivitis). It can even be telling of issues in different parts of your body. Bad breath can be a sign of throat or lung infections; of liver or kidney disease.
Halitosis can be a result of:
- Strong foods, such as garlic and onions
- Poor dental hygiene
- Regular consumption of alcohol and cigarettes
- Food caught between teeth
- Dry mouth
- Bacteria on the tongue
- Gingivitis and periodontal disease (the two most common types of gum disease)
- Health issues in another part of your body e.g. throat, liver, kidneys, lungs