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Not maintaining good oral hygiene or not
being able to maintain because of gum conditions and hard to reach
places or dental appliances can lead to bad breath problems. Bits of
food left in our teeth after meals can decompose and form tarter and
plaque if not attended to diligently. Certain gum conditions like
gingivitis and at a more advanced stage periodontis can form deep
pockets in which plaque accumulates and sulfur compound producing
anaerobic bacteria thrive due to lack of oxygen.
ENT problems, upper respiratory tract
infections, allergies and hormonal changes during pregnancy etc causes
a mucous discharge which flows down the back of the throat called post
nasal drip. The bacteria feed on the proteins in the mucous and create
volatile sulfur compounds which cause bad breath.
Medical conditions can sometimes be the cause of bad breath, though
the more common causes of bad breath originate in the mouth. If a
dentist cannot determine the exact cause of your bad breath, then a
medical doctor should be consulted rule out other possible causes
including the onset of diabetes, gastrointestinal problems, bronchial
problems, kidney or liver problems.
Certain medications like antidepressants, antihistamines, diuretics,
psychiatric drugs, sleeping pills, water pills or diuretics and
recreational drugs create dry mouth conditions which are a prime cause
of bad breath.
The posterior portion of the tongue is covered by hair like structures
which form layers of mucous, food debris and dead cells where the
bacteria thrive. |
