What causes bad breath?
Bad breath, or halitosis, can be resulted by a variety of factors, but one of the most popular is the presence of bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria deliver sulfur compounds that create an unpleasant odor. Although we all have bacteria in our mouths, certain types thrive because of poor hygiene or oral health problems.
Symptoms to look after
- White tongue: If you spot a white or yellowish coating on the surface of your tongue, it could be a signal that certain bacteria are developing.
- Swollen or bleeding gums: Swollen gums can be a signal of gingivitis, a bacterial infection that, in addition to lead to bad breath, causing more serious problems if left untreated.
- Canker sores: Mouth ulcers can also be a signal of an imbalance in the bacterial flora.
What bacteria are behind bad breath?
There are many bacteria that exist in our mouths, but some are directly linked to halitosis. Among them:
- Porphyromonas gingivalis: This bacteria is a key reason of gum disease, which often supports bad breath.
- Treponema denticola: Linked to periodontitis, this bacteria can significantly develop unpleasant odors when proper dental hygiene is not maintained.
- Fusobacterium nucleatum: Commonly exist in dental plaque and related with gum disease and persistent bad breath.
How to get rid of bad breath and fight off these bacteria?
Fortunately, there are many effective solutions to remove these bacteria and get rid of bad breath:
- Tongue brushing: Brushing your teeth isn’t enough. Using a tongue cleaner gets rid of the bacterial layer that forms on your tongue, reducing the cause of bad breath.
- Flossing: Bacteria often hide between teeth where a toothbrush can’t reach. Daily flossing can get rid of food debris and odor-causing bacteria.
- Antibacterial mouthwashes: Select mouthwashes designed to combat the bacteria that cause halitosis, such as those consisting of chlorhexidine or crucial oils.
- Regular dental visits: Regular dental examinations are key to solving problems such as gingivitis or periodontitis and treating them before they become worse.
