There are 3 usual sources of bad breath: sinus/nasal, dental and stomach problems. A 4th cause is foul gases from the lungs. It seems like everyone has nasal allergies and sinus problems and it's common for patients to have colds that aggravate them. When nasal and sinus fluids remain stagnant they will begin to stink. There really are only nasal problems because almost all sinus problems result from the sinus drain into the nose being blocked. When the drain is blocked, fluids pool in the sinus and bacteria grow in them. Patients with nasal and sinus problems often complain of a metallic taste in the mouth.

          The 2nd source of bad breath is dental problems. Periodontal problems cause bleeding gums and the blood rots causing a malodor and sometimes a bad taste. Because gums swell, pockets around the teeth trap food. The food is difficult to remove because the pockets are often deeper than 4 or 5 mm, brushing isn't effective. Food can combine with bacteria to form a sort of yogurt that sticks to the teeth, tongue and cheeks. Old dentures absorb foods that rot and smell. It's natural for the gums to swell in women before a monthly menstration. This swelling can be the cause. Similarly, pregnant women have swollen gums and often suffer from the same problem.

          The third source of bad breath is stomach problems. People often eat foods that don't agree with them and the food causes their stomachs to churn and give off odors that float up to the mouth and nose. Older people in nursing homes often have halitosis. This is due to a decrease in saliva with age that causes a dry mouth and odor.

          Uncontrolled diabetes can cause a patient to give off acetones. Acetones form a gas that the diabetic patient releases through the lungs and causes an unusual type of odor. There are other causes of bad breath such as kidney disease, lung problems, cancer, throat infections, tuberculosis and sinusitis. Many prescription drugs such as antidepressants cause oral problems and odor. There are many different bad breath cures depending on the cause of bad breath. If you would like an evaluation by Dr. Mark Allan Padolsky, make an appointment at 404-874-7428.