Bad breath is gross, so let’s talk about what causes it, and how to fix it.

Dry mouth = smelly mouth

A decrease in saliva flow can be caused by several things. Most often, medication or mouth breathing are the culprits.

As saliva helps wash away food particles from your mouth, it prevents bad breath.

Dry mouth can be dealt with by stimulating salivation.

Gum disease and poor oral hygiene

Not brushing and flossing well enough or with enough frequency can lead to gum disease, which leads to bad breath. Halitosis can be a sign that plaque is present on your teeth.

Food-related bad breath

Food particles that aren’t brushed or flossed away attract bacteria that leads to bad breath. It’s especially important to brush after eating strong-smelling foods, such as garlic or onions.

Smoking and tobacco

Tobacco is bad for your health, and that includes your oral health. Smoking or chewing tobacco can contribute toward the development of gum disease, as well as oral cancer.

Mouth infections and other medical problems

A mouth infection, sinus infection or even the common cold can cause you to temporarily have bad breath.

Even conditions such as diabetes and reflux can cause halitosis. It’s always wise to see your dentist to help determine the cause.