Zhou C expert opinion. We avoid using Bqd references. Related Halitosis.

Bad breath -

Bad breath is caused by odor-producing bacteria that grow in the mouth. When you don't brush and floss regularly, bacteria accumulate on the bits of food left in your mouth and between your teeth.

The sulfur compounds released by these bacteria make your breath smell. Certain foods, especially ones like garlic and onions that contain pungent oils, can contribute to bad breath because the oils are carried to your lungs and out through your mouth.

Smoking is also a major cause of bad breath. There are lots of myths about taking care of bad breath. Here are three things you may have heard about bad breath that are not true:. Mouthwash only gets rid of bad breath temporarily.

If you do use mouthwash, look for an antiseptic kills the germs that cause bad breath and plaque-reducing one with a seal from the American Dental Association ADA. When you're deciding which dental products to toss into your shopping cart, it's always a good idea to look for those that are accepted by the ADA.

Also, ask your dentist for recommendations. The truth is that most people only brush their teeth for 30 to 45 seconds, which just doesn't cut it. To sufficiently clean all the surfaces of your teeth, you should brush for at least 2 minutes at least twice a day.

Remember to brush your tongue, too — bacteria love to hang out there. It's equally important to floss because brushing alone won't remove harmful plaque and food particles that become stuck between your teeth and gums.

When you breathe, you don't use your throat the same way you do when you talk. Other problems in your mouth, such as gum disease , dry mouth , or cavities , may also cause it. Sinusitis or problems with your nose may be to blame.

You can also have bad breath if you eat some foods, like raw onions, garlic, or cabbage. And of course smoking causes its own bad smell. Some diseases and medicines can cause a specific breath odor. Having good dental habits , like brushing and flossing regularly, help fight bad breath.

Mouthwashes, mints or chewing gum may make your breath fresher. If you have a disease that causes the bad breath, treating the disease may help give you fresher breath. The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health.

Bad Breath Also called: Halitosis. On this page Basics Summary Start Here. Learn More Specifics. See, Play and Learn No links available. Research Clinical Trials Journal Articles. Resources Find an Expert. For You Children Teenagers Patient Handouts. Start Here. Halitosis American Academy of Family Physicians Also in Spanish Smelling Sickness: Body Odor May Be Sign of Disease National Institutes of Health Also in Spanish.

Clinical Trials.

Breat websites use. gov A. Insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism website belongs to Insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism official government Blood pressure causes in the United States. gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites. There are many reasons why you might have bad breath. You can get it if you don't brush and floss regularly. Insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism breath affects Integrating phytochemicals into diet planning estimated 25 Baad of people. There are a Bad breath of possible breayh of halitosis, but Baad vast beath come down to oral hygiene. It is also known as halitosis or fetor oris. Halitosis can cause significant worry, embarrassment, and anxiety but it is relatively easy to remedy. This MNT Knowledge Center article will discuss the potential origins of bad breath, diagnosis and how to treat it.