6 reasons causing persistent bad breath

Bacteria accumulate on the tongue

One of the most common causes of persistent bad breath is bacteria buildup on the tongue. Food debris, dead cells, and saliva can form a layer called plaque on the tongue, creating an environment for bacteria to produce sulfur compounds. Regularly cleaning the tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush significantly reduces bad breath and improves oral hygiene.

Dental instruments

Dentures, braces or other dental devices can trap food scraps and bacteria. Improper hygiene leads to persistent bad breath. You should clean these devices daily, removing them at night to prevent bacteria buildup and fresh breath. Using specialized cleaning solutions and regular dental check-ups helps protect oral health.

Lack of water

Not drinking enough water also causes bad breath. Because when the body lacks water, the amount of saliva secreted will decrease, creating conditions for bacteria to thrive in the mouth. Saliva plays an important role in naturally cleaning the mouth, washing away food debris and bacteria with unpleasant odors. Adults should try to drink 8 glasses of water (240 ml each) every day.

Drink coffee

Drinking coffee brings many health benefits, but this beverage contributes to bad breath. Coffee has a high sulfur content, which is also the cause of bad odors.

Use carbonated drinks

Carbonated drinks in the diet can lead to bad breath. Acid in soft drinks (foaming agent) plays a major role in causing bad breath. They dry out the mouth and create conditions for bacteria to grow.

Choose your diet

Diet also affects breath odor. Certain foods, besides garlic and onions, contribute to bad breath. For example, a high-protein diet, especially for people who are losing weight, can cause the body to break down fat. This process produces ketones – this substance emits a characteristic unpleasant odor. Besides causing dental problems, sugary foods and drinks also feed bacteria in the mouth that lead to acid production, creating an unpleasant odor.

Smoking is harmful to health, dries the mouth, reduces salivation, and leaves a persistent unpleasant odor. Bad breath can also be a sign of kidney disease, liver failure, diabetes, sleep apnea or gastric reflux…