Bad Breath Could Point to an Oral Infection

Bad breath is a very common condition that affects about 25 percent of adults. This condition can be very unpleasant and embarrassing. Bad breath is commonly caused by poor oral hygiene that leads to the accumulation of bacteria. It accumulates in your mouth and produces a foul odor. As much as bad breath is commonly caused by poor oral health, there are other oral conditions that lead to bad breath. Therefore, having a bad breath could also be a sign of an underlying oral infection. Some of the common ones include dry mouth and gum disease.

Dry Mouth

Saliva is a very important component of your mouth. It plays an essential role in washing away bacteria and keeping your mouth clean. When there is an insufficient amount of bacteria in your mouth, you will suffer from an oral condition known as dry mouth. Given that saliva washes away bacteria and helps keep your mouth clean, lack of it will mean the opposite. There will be a lot of bacteria that accumulate in your mouth, leading to bad breath. The bad breath associated with dry mouth is sharp and can be very uncomfortable for those around you. Luckily, you can prevent this condition by drinking enough water daily. It is recommended that you drink about two liters of water on a daily basis.

Gum Disease

Bad breath could also be a sign of underlying gum disease. This is an oral condition that is caused by harmful bacteria present in your mouth. The bacteria feed on food particles and will build up to form plaque. If not removed, the bacteria will cause damage to your teeth and gums, leading to conditions like gum disease. The condition causes swelling of gums, making them reddish, and would produce a bad smell if not treated. Therefore, if you notice a sharp and foul odor from your mouth, it could be a sign of gum disease. Contact our offices for more information on the causes of bad breath.