Everyone knows that garlic generates dragon breath. That's why, despite being one of the most used seasonings in our cuisine, we usually keep it at bay when we have social commitments. However, few people know what the main causes of bad breath are and how to remedy it.

Here are the 4 answers to your halitosis problems from Microdental Clinic in Mojacar:

What causes halitosis or bad breath? Where does it originate?

In most cases (about 90%), bad breath originates in the mouth itself. The main culprits are:

1. Bacterial buildup on the tongue

The tongue's rough surface harbors bacteria that produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) - the main cause of bad odor. The back of the tongue is especially problematic as it's harder to clean and has less oxygen, creating ideal conditions for anaerobic bacteria.

2. Gum disease

Gingivitis and periodontitis create pockets where bacteria thrive. These infections produce foul-smelling gases and can cause persistent bad breath that doesn't improve with brushing alone. If your gums bleed when brushing, this might be your issue.

3. Dry mouth (xerostomia)

Saliva naturally cleanses your mouth and neutralizes acids. When saliva production decreases:

• Bacteria multiply faster
• Food particles aren't washed away
• Dead cells accumulate on tongue and cheeks
• Morning breath becomes worse

4. Food and lifestyle factors

Beyond garlic and onions, these contribute to bad breath:

• Coffee: Creates a breeding ground for bacteria and dries the mouth
• Alcohol: Dehydrates and reduces saliva production
• Smoking: Causes its own odor plus dry mouth and gum disease
• High-protein diets: Produce ammonia during digestion
• Sugary foods: Feed bacteria that produce acids and odors

Medical causes (10% of cases)

Sometimes bad breath signals health issues:

• Sinus infections: Post-nasal drip feeds bacteria
• Acid reflux: Stomach acids create sour breath
• Diabetes: Can cause fruity or acetone breath
• Kidney disease: May produce ammonia-like odor
• Liver problems: Can cause musty smell

Professional solutions that work

Solution 1: Comprehensive oral hygiene

• Brush twice daily for 2 minutes: Include all tooth surfaces
• Clean your tongue: Use a tongue scraper or brush back-to-front
• Floss daily: Remove trapped food and plaque between teeth
• Use therapeutic mouthwash: Choose antibacterial formulas, not just minty ones

Solution 2: Stay hydrated

• Drink 8 glasses of water daily
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva
• Use saliva substitutes if you have chronic dry mouth
• Limit caffeine and alcohol intake

Solution 3: Dietary adjustments

• Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables (apples, carrots, celery)
• Include probiotic foods (yogurt, kefir)
• Avoid crash diets and fasting
• Reduce sugary and acidic foods

Solution 4: Professional treatment

At Microdental Clinic, we offer:

• Deep cleaning to remove tartar and bacteria
• Gum disease treatment
• Cavity detection and treatment
• Saliva flow assessment
• Personalized oral hygiene instruction

When to see a dentist

Seek professional help if:

• Bad breath persists despite good hygiene
• You notice a constant bad taste
• Others mention your breath frequently
• You have bleeding gums or tooth pain
• Dry mouth is chronic

Don't let bad breath affect your confidence and relationships. Schedule a consultation at Microdental Clinic in Mojacar to identify and treat the root cause. Fresh breath starts with healthy teeth and gums!