Why does bad breath occur?

Bad breath is a very common problem, experienced by more than half of the population. The main cause of bad breath is volatile sulfur compounds produced when bacteria in the mouth decompose proteins such as food debris, saliva, and shed oral mucosal cells.

Once a person becomes aware of their bad breath, they may feel psychologically intimidated, and in severe cases, it can interfere with their social life.

Why does bad breath occur?
The causes of bad breath are diverse. Have you ever noticed that your bad breath worsens when wearing a mask for a long time? Wearing a mask for an extended period increases the temperature and humidity inside the mask, disrupting airflow in the mouth and creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Accurately identifying these causes is the first step in preventing and treating bad breath.

1. Decreased saliva secretion

When saliva secretion decreases, bacteria in the mouth can easily multiply, leading to bad breath. Snoring or dry mouth can make the odor worse.

2. Lifestyle habits

Smoking, alcohol consumption, and intake of certain foods (such as garlic, onions, meat, and dairy products) can cause bad breath. Additionally, stress and irregular eating habits can also be causes of bad breath.

3. Oral and Dental Health Issues

Tongue coating, gum disease, and improper dental prosthetics can be direct causes of bad breath. Chronic sinusitis, tonsil stones, and other conditions of the nose and pharynx can also cause bad breath, and some gastrointestinal and systemic diseases may also influence it.

4. Medication administration

Some medications, including those containing sulfur compounds, drugs that reduce saliva secretion, or sleeping pills, can cause bad breath.

5. Hormonal Changes and Aging

Bad breath can occur due to hormonal changes caused by menstruation or pregnancy. Additionally, as people age, saliva production decreases and gum disease increases, which can worsen bad breath.