Halitosis most often results from fermentation of food particles by anaerobic gram-negative bacteria in the mouth, producing such volatile sulfur compounds as hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan. Causative bacteria may be present in areas of gingival or periodontal disease, particularly when ulceration or necrosis is present. In patients with healthy periodontal tissue, these bacteria deposit on the dorsal posterior tongue.

Halitosis is bad or sour smelling breath. Bad breath can be acute (short term) or chronic (long term) depending on the cause. It may indicate the need to clean the teeth and mouth more often, tooth or gum disease, or intestinal disorders.

Halitosis is usually caused by poor oral hygiene. However, it can also be caused by retained food particles or gum disease. Proper brushing including brushing the tongue, cheeks, and the roof of the mouth will remove bacteria and food particles.

In most cases, halitosis originates from the gums and tongue. The odor is caused by bacteria from the decay of food particles, other debris in your mouth, and poor oral hygiene. The decay and debris produce a sulfur compound that causes the unpleasant odor.

Saliva is the key ingredient in your mouth that helps keep halitosis from developing. It does this by washing away food particles and bacteria, the primary cause of bad breath.

If the cause of the halitosis is caused by an underlying gum disease, the condition may be treated by your dentist, or you may be referred to an oral specialist – in most cases, a periodontist. A periodontal cleaning often helps to remove the bacteria and plaque that has accumulated and is wearing down the gum line.

As a bad breath solution, brush at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to remove food debris and plaque. Brush your teeth after you eat (keep a toothbrush at work or school to brush after lunch). Don’t forget to brush your tongue, too. Replace your toothbrush every 2 to 3 months. Use floss cleaner to remove food particles and plaque between your teeth once a day. Dentures should be removed at night and cleaned thoroughly before being placed in your mouth the next morning. Proper brushing techniques and regular flossing can work wonders. Brushing a furry tongue with a tongue cleaner is helpful.