Main causes of bad breath
Poor oral hygiene: When food particles remain between the teeth and gums, bacteria break them down and release odor-causing gases.
Diseases of the teeth and gums:
Cavities in the teeth.
Gingivitis/Periodontitis.
Plaque/Tartar on the teeth.
Dirt accumulating on the tongue: Bacteria accumulating on the back of the tongue is a major cause of bad breath.
Dry mouth: Saliva has the ability to clean the mouth. However, if the mouth becomes dry during sleep or while talking, bacteria can multiply and cause bad breath.
Dietary habits: Eating onions, garlic, and some spices can cause bad breath.
Health Problems:
Sinusitis: Infections of the nose and throat.
Gastritis: Indigestion or stomach acidity problems.
Diabetes: High blood sugar levels can cause bad breath.
Smoking and drinking: These dry out the mouth and cause bad breath.