Halitosis or bad breath

Halitosis (bad breath) is, in the main, caused by sulphur-producing bacteria that normally live within the surface of the tongue and in the throat. Sometimes, these bacteria start to break down proteins at a very high rate and odorous volatile sulphur compounds (VSC) are released from the back of the tongue and throat. Halitosis is not infectious.

Causes of halitosis
Major causes
The major causes of halitosis are:

• Dry mouth - caused by medicines, alcohol, stress or a medical condition.
• Foods high in protein, sugar or acid.
• Smoking - which starves the mouth of oxygen.
• Dental factors - such as periodontitis (infection around the teeth) or poor oral hygiene.
• Nasal and sinus infections.

• Acid and bile reflux from the stomach.
• Post nasal discharge - for example, due to chronic sinusitis.
• Hormonal factors - such as menstrual cycle or pregnancy.
• Foods - such as onions, garlic or cauliflower, which induce certain odours. However, these effects are only short lived.

• A white coating on the tongue
• Dry mouth and teeth
• Post nasal drip, or mucous
• Morning bad breath and a burning tongue
• Thick saliva and a constant need to clear your throat
• Constant sour, bitter metallic taste.

• Your doctor
• Dentist
• Your local chemist.

• Halitosis is caused by sulphur-producing bacteria in the tongue and throat.
• The major causes include a dry mouth caused by certain foods, smoking, poor oral hygiene and hormonal factors.
• The treatment of halitosis will depend on the underlying cause.

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