Halitosis, better known as bad breath, typically results from a bacterial infestation of the teeth and tongue due to poor oral hygiene or food debris stuck on their surface. It can cause severe embarrassment and anxiety in those facing this issue. Bad breath can affect people of all age groups, but the odor may vary. Let’s have a closer look at what causes this problem, its symptoms, and the remedies available.

Symptoms
The most significant symptom of halitosis is a foul-smelling breath that persists. Other indications include white or yellow coverings along the tongue, a dry mouth, and a bad taste in the mouth. Patients who experience any of these should get in touch with a dentist or a registered health practitioner to identify the reason behind the problem.

Causes
Halitosis or bad breath is a common problem faced by almost every individual at one point or the other. Below are a few factors that can trigger it:

• Xerostomia
  Bad breath is prevalent among people who suffer from dry mouth or xerostomia. When the mouth is dry, there is a lack of saliva to clean up leftover food particles effectively. This leads to an unpleasant odor and accumulation of bacteria. Many things can cause a dry mouth, such as certain chemical formulations, low hydration levels, and specific health conditions.
• Certain foods
  Bad breath is caused when food particles get stuck in and around the teeth, leading to bacteria accumulation in the mouth. Eating certain foods like garlic, onion, and spices also leads to the problem. These foods leave a strong odor in the mouth. They also enter the bloodstream post digestion and get transported to the lungs, affecting breath.
• Poor oral health
  The primary reason behind bad breath is poor oral hygiene. Food particles stuck in the teeth can cause bad breath if not removed. Moreover, particles that remain in the teeth for a long time can lead to plaque buildup, which can cause irritation along the gums and lead to several oral health complications. Hence, brushing regularly and following a thorough oral cleaning routine is essential.
• Mouth infections
  Bad breath also occurs when a patient undergoes oral surgery for gum diseases like periodontal disease. This condition is characterized by an infection of the tissues that hold the teeth in place.
• Chemical formulations
  Formulations in certain treatments can indirectly cause dry mouth, leading to bad breath. Similarly, when broken down in the body, certain treatments release chemicals that can result in halitosis.
• Specific diseases
  The problem can also occur in people who develop tonsillitis or tiny stones along their tonsils. It is also seen in patients with cancer and metabolic disorders.

While there are many causes of the condition, bad breath often results from eating foods with strong flavors, like onion and garlic. The odor usually leaves the mouth some time after eating these foods; however, if it does not, it could be a sign of an underlying oral health issue or a problem with another part of the body. If one cannot determine the cause of the foul-smelling breath, they should consult a doctor.

Treatments and remedies
The treatment widely depends on what has led to the condition. For example, if a patient is suffering from bad breath due to improper brushing and a lack of flossing, they will need to undergo a dental cleaning procedure to eliminate food particles and bacteria from the mouth and boost oral health. Drinking sufficient water can also help by keeping the moth hydrated and suppressing foul odors.

If bad breath is caused due to certain health conditions, treating those conditions may aid in keeping mouth odor in check. For example, if the unpleasant smell is due to GERD, one should take necessary measures to lower stomach acids. Similarly, people suffering from dry mouth should consult a health practitioner and get treatment to boost saliva production.

Bad breath may indicate a more severe problem, like oral cancer, in specific cases. Therefore, patients who see no improvement after oral hygiene treatments or therapies should visit a dentist or health expert to determine the exact cause.

Prevention
Bad breath is an issue that can reoccur. To keep the condition at bay, one should:

• Brush twice a day
• Floss once every day
• Use an antibacterial mouthwash
• Visit a dentist for regular cleanings
• Drink plenty of water
• Reduce the intake of caffeinated foods and beverages

Besides following these tips, one can consult an expert to develop an oral care routine that can keep bad breath away.