Bad breath-halitosis

Halitosis can be caused by several factors, but the most common is periodontal disease. The bacterial infection causes gum tissue destruction and cell death (pus) and blood  coming from the gums smells and tastes bad.

Temporary bad breath can be caused by foods that you eat. If you regularly enjoy foods with strong odors like garlic, onions, cheese, fish, or spicy foods, they may be the culprit. While brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash after eating foods with strong odors temper bad breath, it will not go away completely until they have completely passed through your system.

Your bad breath may also be caused by yeast infections of the mouth, poorly fitting dental appliances, dry mouth, chronic sinus infections, respiratory tract infections, diabetes, chronic acid reflux, and liver or kidney problems.

One of the most common causes of no dental related halitosis is constipation.  Constipation is a condition that occurs when the food transit time has slowed down so much that and food that is eaten isn’t processed and digested before it begins to putrefy. If the production of gas occurs above the food blockage, the result is acid reflux and a gas odor that doesn’t go away with brushing and other oral hygiene methods.  Acid reflux can also damage the teeth due to the high acidity. Abdominal pain, diarrhea, and flatulence are all symptoms that occur when the gaseous production occurs below the food blockage…the gas exits at the bottom of the food tube. Read the book, Cure Constipation Now!  Dr. Wes Jones, to learn more about how to recognize and beat this serious health issue.  

Take the quick test to see if you are constipated:

  1. Do you have at least two bowel movements per day where the “product” is about 10 inches?
  2. The “product” should not have an unpleasant aroma
  3. The delivery of the “product” needs to be effortless.

If you can’t answer yes to all three, then you are constipated!