Bad Breath (Halitosis) Causes and Permanent Solutions

Bad breath (halitosis) is a sensitive problem that is very common in society but that people hesitate to talk about. Temporary bad breath (morning smell, after onion-garlic) is normal and can be easily eliminated. However, persistent bad breath may be a sign of a serious underlying health problem. So, what are the causes of bad breath? In what cases should a doctor be consulted? And most importantly, how to get rid of bad breath permanently? In this article, I will explain the answers to all these questions in the light of scientific data.

What is Bad Breath and Why Does It Occur?

Halitosis occurs when bacteria in the mouth break down proteins and produce sulfur gases. These gases are the main source of bad odor. 85-90% of bad breath originates from inside the mouth. The remaining 10-15% is caused by systemic diseases (diabetes, kidney failure, liver disease).

Main Causes of Bad Breath

• Inadequate Oral Care: Keeping your teeth regular Not brushing, not using dental floss and neglecting tongue cleaning causes bacteria to multiply.
• Gum Diseases (Periodontitis): Bacteria accumulating in the gum pockets cause inflammation and bad odor.
• Tooth Decay: Food residues and bacteria accumulated in decayed areas produce odor.
• Dry Mouth. (Xerostomia): Reduced saliva flow prevents the clearance of bacteria. Some medications, smoking and alcohol cause dry mouth.
• Bacteria on the Surface of the Tongue: Bacteria accumulating on the back of the tongue is the most common cause of bad breath.
• Not Cleaning Dentures and Bridges: Food residues accumulated under removable dentures and bridges cause odor.
• Smoking and Alcohol Use: Smoking causes dry mouth and gum disease. Alcohol also increases dry mouth.
• Certain Foods: Foods such as onion, garlic, spicy foods, coffee cause temporary odor.
• Systemic Diseases: Diseases such as diabetes, kidney failure, liver disease, reflux, sinusitis can cause bad breath.

Ways to Permanently Eliminate Bad Breath

1. Correct and Regular Brushing: Brush with fluoride toothpaste for 2 minutes, at least twice a day. Also brush the gum line and your tongue.
2. Flossing: Use dental floss once a day to remove plaque between the teeth.
3. Tongue Cleaning: Clean your tongue every day with a tongue cleaner or soft brush. The tongue is the place where bacteria accumulate the most.
4. Using Mouthwash: Use antibacterial, non-alcoholic mouthwashes. However, it does not replace mouthwash, brushing and dental floss.
5. Drink Plenty of Water: Water cleans bacteria in the mouth and increases saliva flow. Drink at least 2 liters of water a day.
6. Chew Sugar-Free Gum: It temporarily eliminates bad breath by increasing the flow of saliva. However, avoid sugary chewing gums.
7. Regular Dentist Checkup: Go to the dentist at least twice a year and have your teeth cleaned and gum diseases treated.
8. Stop Smoking and Alcohol: These substances cause dry mouth and gum disease.
9. Pay Attention to Your Nutrition: Avoid smelly foods such as onion and garlic. then brush your teeth. Fibrous foods (apples, carrots) increase saliva flow.
10. Treat Underlying Diseases: If bad breath does not go away despite all these measures, it may be a symptom of a systemic disease (diabetes, reflux, sinusitis). Be sure to consult a physician.

Prof. Dr. İbrahim Duran's Bad Breath Approach

Prof. Dr. İbrahim Duran first performs a detailed oral examination on his patients complaining of bad breath and determines the underlying cause. Intraoral causes such as gum disease, caries, and prosthesis incompatibility are treated. If necessary, directs the patient to relevant specialists for systemic diseases. His clinic offers a comprehensive treatment plan to permanently eliminate bad breath.