Foul Breath: Possible Causes

Yucky, disgusting-smelling breath happens to everyone, periodically. However, once you're rinsing with mouthwash or popping breath mints multiple times in a single day, admitting a true bad breath problem is vital. Realizing that halitosis, the official name for the condition, is a regular part of life can urge you to seek solutions. Finding the root problem could be as easy as recognizing one of these possible causes.

Cavities or Gums

Cavities are a visible and palpable signal that bacteria has caused decay on at least the surface of a tooth. Both the bacteria and the decay could be why constant rinses or mints never seemed to erase the foul odor. 

Even without cavities, bacteria could have nestled into your gums. Red gums and nasty breath could indicate disease of those tissues. 

Tonsil Stones

Tonsillitis is both uncomfortable and painful, and if you've had this condition more than once, you're likely considering tonsil removal. Another reason to think about such a procedure is that it's possibly ruining your breath. In some people, calcium deposits called tonsil stones or tonsilloliths are coating troubled tonsils. Everything in your mouth may seem perfect, but if tonsil stones are the problem, yucky breath will persist.

Medications

Your mouth could be cavity-free, yet your breath reeks of nasty odors. Your dentist will then turn their attention to the medication list you've filled out, or ask if you're trying anything new. Many prescription drugs have a "dry mouth" side effect, which seems innocuous. However, it's not just that your mouth feels dry; it's that the less saliva you have traveling around inside your mouth, the freer bacteria are to multiply. Thriving bacteria in your mouth could be releasing chemicals which cause putrid breath. You may be asked to increase your intake of clean water, but you may discuss the issue with the prescribing doctor.

Serious Health Conditions

Sometimes, after a careful examination of your mouth and all possible oral issues, the problem still cannot be found. In such cases, dentists will refer people to doctors with clear guidance to examine various health problems that have smelly breath as a symptom. For example, if the odor seems to be similar to ammonia, kidney disease may exist. 

Your dentist is one of the only professionals with the skill needed to ascertain the real reason for the awful smell inside your mout. Work with them to solve this troublesome issue, and stop feeling embarrassed about your breath. For more information, contact a dentist in your area.