Persistent bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be embarrassing and affect daily interactions. Many people experience occasional bad breath, which usually resolves with brushing or mouthwash. However, when bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, it may indicate an underlying problem. Understanding the causes of chronic bad breath and addressing them is key to restoring fresh breath and overall oral health.

Dr. Mohammed Moin Holy, Dentist at Holy Dental Care, specialises in diagnosing and treating dental issues that can cause persistent halitosis. Here, we explore the common reasons for chronic bad breath and the steps you can take to prevent it.

Understanding Persistent Bad Breath

Bad breath occurs when bacteria in the mouth release sulfur compounds that produce an unpleasant odour. While occasional bad breath can happen due to certain foods, persistent bad breath often points to more complex oral or systemic issues.

Halitosis can be classified as:

• Oral halitosis: Caused by dental or oral hygiene issues.
• Extra-oral halitosis: Caused by conditions elsewhere in the body, such as the respiratory system, gastrointestinal tract, or metabolic disorders.

1. Poor Oral Hygiene

The most common cause of persistent bad breath is inadequate oral hygiene. When plaque, food particles, and bacteria accumulate on teeth and gums, they produce foul-smelling compounds.

Tips to improve oral hygiene:

• Brush teeth at least twice daily, using fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove food particles between teeth.
• Clean the tongue, especially the back of the tongue, where bacteria often collect.
• Use an antiseptic mouthwash to reduce bacterial buildup.

Even with good home care, regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain oral health and prevent halitosis.

2. Gum Disease (Periodontitis)

Gum disease, or periodontitis, is another major contributor to chronic bad breath. When plaque hardens into tartar, it can cause inflammation of the gums, leading to infection. The bacteria involved release toxins that contribute to bad breath.

Signs of gum disease may include:

• Red, swollen, or bleeding gums
• Receding gums or loose teeth
• Persistent bad taste or odour in the mouth

Professional treatment, such as deep cleaning (scaling and root planing) and proper dental care, is necessary to manage gum disease and eliminate associated halitosis.

3. Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Saliva plays a crucial role in cleaning the mouth and removing food particles. A reduction in saliva, known as dry mouth, can lead to persistent bad breath. Causes of dry mouth include:

• Dehydration or insufficient water intake
• Certain medications such as antihistamines, antidepressants, or blood pressure medicines
• Mouth breathing, especially during sleep
• Medical conditions affecting saliva production

Increasing water intake, chewing sugar-free gum, and consulting a dentist for saliva stimulants can help manage dry mouth-related bad breath.

4. Food and Diet

Certain foods are well-known for causing temporary bad breath. Onions, garlic, spicy foods, and strong cheeses can contribute to halitosis.

Even after brushing, compounds from these foods can linger in the mouth and enter the bloodstream, releasing odour through the lungs. While dietary choices alone are not usually the cause of persistent halitosis, they can exacerbate it.

5. Tobacco Products

Smoking or using other tobacco products contributes significantly to bad breath. Tobacco dries out the mouth, increases bacterial growth, and leaves a lingering odour. It also raises the risk of gum disease, which further worsens halitosis. Quitting smoking or tobacco use not only improves breath but also enhances overall oral and general health.

6. Infections in the Mouth, Nose, or Throat

Bacterial infections in the mouth, tonsils, sinuses, or throat can cause chronic bad breath. Common issues include:

• Tonsillitis or tonsil stones
• Sinus infections or post-nasal drip
• Oral ulcers or abscesses

Treatment depends on the underlying infection, so seeing a dentist or ENT specialist is crucial for diagnosis and management.

7. Gastrointestinal Issues

Although less common, certain digestive issues can contribute to persistent bad breath. Acid reflux (GERD) can cause stomach acids to flow into the oesophagus and mouth, resulting in a sour or foul odour. Other conditions, such as gastrointestinal infections or liver and kidney problems, may also manifest as halitosis.

8. Systemic Health Conditions

Some systemic health conditions can affect breath odour, including:

• Diabetes (especially if blood sugar is poorly controlled, leading to a fruity or acetone-like smell)
• Kidney disease (urine-like odour due to buildup of toxins)
• Liver disease (musty or sweet odour from liver dysfunction)

If oral causes have been ruled out, a physician may investigate these systemic factors to identify the root cause.

How to Prevent Persistent Bad Breath

Addressing bad breath involves a combination of good oral hygiene, lifestyle adjustments, and regular dental care:

• Brush and floss daily, including cleaning your tongue.
• Visit your dentist for routine check-ups and professional cleaning every six months.
• Stay hydrated and avoid excessive alcohol or caffeine.
• Avoid tobacco products.
• Limit foods that contribute to temporary bad breath.
• Treat underlying medical conditions promptly.

When to See a Dentist

Persistent bad breath that does not improve with regular brushing and flossing warrants professional evaluation. A dentist can:

• Detect gum disease, tooth decay, or infections
• Perform deep cleaning and other treatments
• Recommend oral hygiene strategies tailored to your needs
• Coordinate with medical specialists if systemic causes are suspected

Early intervention not only improves breath but also prevents more serious oral and health issues.

Why Consult Dr. Mohammed Moin Holy

At Holy Dental Care, Dr. Mohammed Moin Holy focuses on comprehensive dental care that addresses both cosmetic and functional concerns. With expertise in treating chronic bad breath, gum disease, and other oral health conditions, he provides personalised care for each patient.

By identifying the root cause of halitosis and offering tailored treatment plans, Dr. Holy helps patients regain confidence in their smile and breath, ensuring long-term oral health.

Take Action Today

Persistent bad breath is not just an inconvenience—it can be a sign of underlying dental or medical issues. Don’t ignore it. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Mohammed Moin Holy at Holy Dental Care to identify the cause, receive effective treatment, and restore fresh, confident breath.