What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, affects an estimated 1 in 4 people worldwide. It can be embarrassing and socially isolating, but the good news is that it is often treatable. At New Vision Dental Clinic in Accra, we help patients identify the root cause of their bad breath and develop effective solutions.
Dental Causes (Approximately 40% of Cases)
The mouth is home to hundreds of types of bacteria. When oral hygiene is poor, these bacteria break down food particles and produce volatile sulphur compounds — the source of bad breath.
- Poor brushing and flossing: Food particles left between teeth decompose and cause odour
- Gum disease: Infected gums create pockets where bacteria thrive, producing persistent bad breath
- Tooth decay: Cavities trap food and bacteria, creating a breeding ground for odour
- Tongue coating: The tongue's surface harbours bacteria that produce up to 80% of mouth-related bad breath
- Dental restorations: Ill-fitting crowns, bridges, or dentures can trap food particles
Medical Causes (Approximately 35% of Cases)
Sometimes bad breath originates outside the mouth:
- GERD (acid reflux): Stomach acid and partially digested food can cause a sour odour
- Sinus infections: Post-nasal drip provides a protein-rich environment for bacteria
- Tonsil stones: Calcified bacterial deposits in tonsil crypts produce a distinctive foul odour
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled diabetes can cause a sweet, fruity breath odour (acetone)
- Liver or kidney disease: Advanced disease can cause distinctive breath odours
- H. pylori infection: This stomach bacteria is linked to bad breath
Lifestyle and Dietary Causes
- Foods: Garlic, onions, and spicy foods release compounds that enter the bloodstream and are exhaled through the lungs
- Tobacco: Smoking and chewing tobacco dry out the mouth and leave their own odour
- Alcohol: Alcohol dries out the mouth, reducing saliva's natural cleansing action
- Crash diets: Low-carb diets and fasting cause ketosis, producing a distinct breath odour
How to Fix Bad Breath
Improve Your Oral Hygiene Routine
- Brush twice daily for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
- Floss daily to remove food between teeth — brushing alone cleans only 60% of tooth surfaces
- Clean your tongue with a tongue scraper or your toothbrush
- Use an antibacterial mouthwash as a supplement, not a replacement for brushing and flossing
Stay Hydrated
Saliva is your mouth's natural cleanser. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you have dry mouth. Chewing sugar-free gum can also stimulate saliva production.
See Your Dentist
If improving your oral hygiene does not resolve bad breath within a few weeks, see your dentist. Professional cleaning removes tartar and bacteria that your toothbrush cannot reach. Your dentist can also check for cavities, gum disease, and other dental causes.
When to See a Doctor
If your dentist rules out dental causes and your breath still does not improve, a medical evaluation may be needed to check for sinus issues, GERD, diabetes, or other systemic conditions.
Bad Breath Treatment at New Vision Dental
At New Vision Dental in Accra, we offer comprehensive halitosis evaluation and treatment. Our approach includes a thorough dental examination, professional cleaning, and personalised oral hygiene instruction. Book your appointment today and take the first step toward fresher breath.
