2009-11-06 12:53:13 -

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There are many causes of bad breath or halitosis. Bacteria within the mouth can produce foul smells. A dry mouth, which can occur during sleep, with smoking and as a consequence of some drugs, will cause dead cells to line the tongue, gums and cheeks. These tissues will then undergo bacterial decomposition.
Foods which have strong odors, such as garlic and

onions as well as certain spices can produce bad breath. Metabolites of alcohol are given off by the lungs and can produce bad breath. Lung infections and gastrointestinal disorders can lead to bad breath. Some systemic diseases can also give off foul smelling odors in the lungs, producing bad breath.

Causes of Halitosis


Some systemic diseases, such as kidney failure, liver failure and diabetes, can produce compounds such as urea, ammonia or acetone, respectively. These are given off by the breath producing halitosis.
Diseases of the lungs where pus is present, such as lung abscess and bronchiectasis, can produce very foul smelling breath from the bacteria present. Esophageal reflux can lead to partially digested foods entering the esophagus or mouth and producing bad breath. Collections of food in sacks or diverticuli of the esophagus may produce bad smells from the digesting or decaying food and bacteria.
Certain foods that are volatile, such as garlic or onions, can produce bad breath directly as well as through the lungs. Bacteria in the mouth or teeth, particularly with dental decay and abscess, produce bad breath. Dry mouth, seen with smoking, certain drugs and mouth breathers, can lead to a coating of the oral cavity with bacteria that lead to bad breath.

Signs and Symptoms of Halitosis


Halitosis produces a wide array of smells associated with bad breath. There are no other distinguishing factors.

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