The Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath is no fun. That’s official. People who are unfortunate enough to suffer from bad breath can find it very distressing: the social stigma attached to bad breath means that sufferers are isolated and often shunned. Bad breath is treated as a joke, but it is far from one, effective the everyday activities of many people.
Bad breath is not necessarily a sign of bad hygiene, nor is it always related to dental problems. It is the bacteria ocupying the mouth’s oral cavity that cause many of these smells; bacteria like fusbacterium and actinomyces purify protein molecules contained in most meaty foods. The process of decaying these proteins releases smelly gases which emit themselves from their human host as a bad odour. Smells generated by this process can be controlled by teeth brushing, tongue cleaning and use of an antisceptic mouthwash.
Sometimes maintenance isn’t enough, and other times it can have no effect - in these extreme cases a doctor may be the only person that can help.
Our series of articles on bad breath first explores some common causes of bad breath. Remember: if in doubt, see a health professional.
