Bad breath or halitosis can be caused by three factors:
(1) Several serious medical problems can cause bad breath. They include diabetes, infection and cancer. The sudden development of foul mouth odor, in the absence of an obvious explanation, calls for medical evaluation.
(2) Some ingested substances are taken up by the blood where they can be excreted by the lungs and cause breath odor. The best known are garlic, onion, pastrami and alcohol. Once ingested these cause breath odor which cannot be eliminated except by time. Masking with other smells, like mint can be partially successful. The breath odors caused by these substances cannot be altered by eating or drinking something else or by taking pills or capsules.
(3) Imperfect oral hygiene is by far the most common cause of bad breath. It is due to the overgrowth of anaerobic (living without oxygen) bacteria which produce volatile malodorous compounds often containing sulfur. Scrupulous care of the mouth, tongue and teeth is necessary to eliminate this problem. It requires dedication and persistence. A combination approach which acts on several different levels is best.
1. All necessary dental work must be done, especially filling of cavities.
2. Teeth should be professionally cleaned twice a year.
3. Brush after every meal. If you can't at least rinse your mouth or chew sugarless gum.
4. Floss at least once a day.
5. Use a tongue scraper at least twice a day. This is the most important single tool.
6. Use a mouthwash specifically designed to get rid of anaerobic bacteria. Some commercial products containing chlorine dioxide are available. An effective mouth rinse containing chlorhexidine gluconate is available by prescription from your doctor or dentist. You can make up your own. Mix equal parts of 3% hydrogen peroxide and water and add a little flavored mouthwash. Rinse for one minute and brush your teeth and tongue with the solution.
7. To find out what's best for you consult your dental health professional.