Halitosis is a common condition caused by sulphur-producing bacteria that live within the surface of the tongue and in the throat. Sometimes, these bacteria start to break down proteins at a very high rate and odorous volatile sulphur compounds (VSC) are released from the back of the tongue and throat. Halitosis is not infectious. About 2.4% of the adult population suffers from bad breath.
Apart from the sulphur-producing bacteria that colonise the back of the tongue, the other major causes of halitosis are:
- dental factors – such as tooth decay, periodontitis (infection around the teeth) or poor oral hygiene. These are the commonest causes of bad breath.
- dry mouth (xerostomia) – caused by medicines, alcohol, stress or a medical condition
- smoking – which starves the mouth of oxygen.
Less common causes of halitosis include:
- acid and bile reflux from the stomach
- post-nasal discharge – for example, due to chronic sinusitis
- kidney failure, various carcinomas, metabolic dysfunctions, and biochemical disorders, together account for only a very small percentage of halitosis suffers
- other medical conditions such as bronchiectasis, bronchitis, diabetes
- medication – some types can cause bad breath, for example nitrates, some chemotherapy drugs and tranquilisers
- crash dieting – fasting, low carbohydrate and high protein diets cause the body to break down fat, which produces chemicals called ketones that can be smelt
- foods – such as onions, garlic or cauliflower, which induce certain odours. However, these effects are only short-lived.
It is important to look for the commonest causes of bad breath first and our dentists will be able to check the health of your mouth and teeth, and give you advice about dental hygiene and any treatment you may need. If no oral or dental cause can be found we will recommend that you see your doctor for further investigations.