Bad breath or halitosis, periodontal disease and gingivitis and overall dental decay are caused by anaerobic bacteria that live in between the teeth and around the gums in our mouths. This sort of bacteria does not require oxygen to survive and is pathological in nature. In actuality, bad breath is probably a powerful indicator of anaerobic bacteria present, but could also indicate other health issue that requires treatment.

Bad breath

Generally, bad breath is most frequently due to the odor given off by bacteria that is living off particles of food, dying tissue as well as each other in the mouth. The anaerobic bacteria that cause bad breath may also live and reproduce on the tongue. The bacteria create the plaque that’s located along the gum line. The plaque is gummy and sticky and brings more germs and bacteria that then attack the teeth and gums, creating additional problems like an gingivitis and periodontal disease which may eventually cause the loss of tooth.

• Gingivitis: This is the inflammation of the gums that’s made by your own immune system trying to fight off the bacterial infection. If left unattended, it could cause an inflammation outbreak that may ravage the gums and teeth.
• Dental Decay: This is a result of the acidic excrement in the bacteria as it absorbs the teeth. The acid given off by the bacteria is actually dissolving the tooth in the mouth.
• Periodontal Disease: This is the reduction of bone and the tissue attachment around the tooth. This problem is caused by a parasitic invasion from anaerobic bacteria around the tooth.
• Diabetes: This disorder can lead to acidosis which then creates bad breath. There are usually other health indicators of diabetes that could be identified.

Remember

Other ailments than those listed above, which might lead to halitosis are smoking, some medicines, mouthwashes (which are alcohol-based) and even excessive mouth breathing (which may cause the mouth to dry out and not permit the saliva to eliminate the bacteria causing the odor). In rare conditions, health conditions, such as certain kinds of cancer and malfunctioning kidneys may also be the origin of the bad breath.

Keeping bad breath due to anaerobic bacteria under control begins with good oral hygiene. This implies a rigorous home regimen of cleaning the teeth twice daily is needed. The use of chlorhexidine gluconate, chlorine dioxide, or hydrogen peroxide as mouthwash may also help out with killing the germs and bacteria while washing them off. Along with diligent home care, it’s important to get professional dental cleanings at least twice annually, and as frequently as every 3 months.