Bad breath or halitosis is a common problem that affects a high percentage of people worldwide. One of the leading causes of bad breath is poor oral hygiene, but there are other underlying conditions that cause foul breath.

These underlying conditions include oral diseases that need to be diagnosed and treated properly to eliminate bad breath. Here’s a list of oral diseases that cause foul breath:.

Gingivitis

Gingivitis is a common gum disease caused by plaque, which is a sticky film of bacteria that forms on teeth.

Plaque produces toxins that irritate and inflame gum tissues leading to gums pulling away from teeth, creating pockets that collect more bacteria leading to bad breath. The bacteria produce sulfurous odors that cause a foul smell.

Periodontitis

Periodontitis is a severe form of gum disease that affects the tissues that support teeth. Like gingivitis, it is caused by plaque that irritates gums.

As the disease progresses, it destroys bone and gum tissue causing teeth to become loose and prone to falling out. Bacteria, food particles, and dead tissue can collect in periodontal pockets producing a foul smell that is even worse than that of gingivitis.

Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a serious condition that affects the lips, tongue, cheeks, and roof of the mouth. It can cause bad breath when the cancerous tissue in the oral cavity produces an unpleasant odor.

Other symptoms of oral cancer include white or red patches in the mouth, a sore throat that does not heal, difficulty swallowing, and changes in the voice.

Candidiasis

Candidiasis is a fungal infection that occurs in the mouth and throat when the Candida fungus grows abnormally. Candida overgrowth is common in people with weakened immune systems, diabetes, and those on antibiotics.

The infection can cause white or yellow patches on the tongue, roof of the mouth, and cheeks and can cause bad breath.

Dry Mouth

Dry mouth (Xerostomia) is a condition that occurs when the mouth produces little or no saliva. Saliva helps to clean the mouth, neutralize acids, and wash away food particles.

The absence of saliva in the mouth predisposes the individual to bad breath due to the buildup of food debris and bacteria in the mouth. Dry mouth is commonly caused by medication, salivary gland problems, and dehydration.

Tooth Decay and Dental Abscess

Tooth decay (also known as dental cavities) and dental abscesses are two of the most common tooth problems in the world. Tooth decay occurs when bacteria in the mouth produce acids that eat away the tooth enamel, causing cavities.

If left untreated, tooth decay can progress and cause a bacterial infection in the tooth, which is referred to as a dental abscess. A dental abscess can emit a foul smell that characterizes bad breath.

Tonsil Stones

Tonsil stones, also known as tonsilloliths, are calcified deposits that form in the crevices of tonsils. Tonsil stones are formed when food particles, bacteria, and dead cells become trapped and calcify in the tonsil crypts.

The stones can harbor bacteria that produce bad breath.

Stomatitis

Stomatitis is an inflammation of the oral mucosa that lines the mouth. It can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection, allergies, or irritation to the lining of the mouth. Stomatitis can cause painful sores in the mouth, fever, and bad breath.

Leukoplakia

Leukoplakia is a condition that causes white patches or spots to develop on the oral mucosa lining the mouth. It can be caused by chronic irritation from tobacco, alcohol, or rough teeth.

Leukoplakia can turn into cancer if left untreated and cause bad breath.

Conclusion

Bad breath is a common problem that affects millions of people worldwide. While poor oral hygiene is one of the leading causes of bad breath, the underlying conditions discussed in this article are serious and require professional medical attention.

It’s essential to see a dentist if you’re experiencing chronic bad breath as they can help diagnose and treat these underlying oral diseases.