Have you noticed a bad taste or smell in your mouth when you wake up? Have you been wearing a mask and noticed an odor? Have you thought to yourself that your breath isn’t as fresh as you would expect it to be?

These are some common questions and concerns we have been proposed to our office recently. Bad breath, or breath malodor, or halitosis are some common names, however, the cause can be and often is more complicated. Bad breath can stem from inside your mouth or outside your mouth. The most common causes from inside the mouth include: periodontal (gum) disease, retained food (stuck between your teeth), dental pathologies (cavities, extraction sockets, or prosthetics that are not properly cleaned or left in your mouth too long, and dry mouth). Unless you have just ate some delicious fish tacos, an egg salad sandwich, or smell something sweet (if not standing in a candy store), those same smells could be signs of kidney failure, liver disease, or uncontrolled diabetes. Often individuals utilize various mouth rinses, toothpastes, or chewing gum to mask the smell, however, this does not address the cause. Evaluation of your bad breath and periodontal condition can lead to treatment to reduce the bacterial load or eliminate reservoirs where bacteria can reside. Beyond the mouth, other sources of bad breath could be from your ears, nose, or throat, which you should discuss to your primary care provider.

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