What Causes Malodour? Malodour, commonly known as bad breath, often results from inadequate oral hygiene. When persistent malodour occurs despite maintaining good oral hygiene, it may indicate an underlying health issue. Investigating the root causes of long-term malodour is crucial. Some people experience bad breath, especially in the morning, due to food particles trapped between teeth overnight. This type of odour usually dissipates after proper oral cleaning. However, if bad breath persists despite regular dental care, seeking advice from an experienced dentist is recommended.

What Is Malodour? Malodour refers to an unpleasant smell originating from the mouth, which can be disruptive to both the individual and those around them. It can stem from various factors, including dental and gum diseases, poor oral hygiene, or improper brushing techniques. Beyond the discomfort, persistent malodour can have negative implications for a person’s health and psychological well-being.

There is a distinct difference between temporary malodour due to poor oral hygiene and chronic malodour that persists even with good hygiene practices. The latter may signal an underlying health issue that requires medical attention. Identifying and treating the root cause is essential to resolving chronic malodour permanently.

Causes of Malodour Malodour can arise from several factors, including:

• Poor eating habits and consumption of unhealthy foods.
• Inadequate time dedicated to oral cleaning and incorrect brushing methods.
• Accumulation of food particles between teeth, leading to bacterial growth.
• Gum diseases, tooth decay, and other dental issues.
• Systemic health problems such as stomach and intestinal disorders, diabetes, dry mouth, tonsillitis, sinusitis, kidney diseases, and more.
• Medications causing dry mouth.
• Infections within the mouth.

Malodour as a Symptom of Underlying Diseases Chronic malodour may indicate underlying health issues, including:

• Diabetes
• Liver failure
• Pharyngitis
• Sinusitis
• Adenoid diseases
• Kidney diseases
• Rotten teeth
• Stomach ailments

Diagnosing Malodour Individuals should first evaluate their oral hygiene habits if they experience malodour. Persistent bad breath despite good hygiene warrants a dental consultation. A dentist can determine whether malodour is due to hygiene issues or underlying health problems. Proper oral care typically resolves hygiene-related malodour, but persistent cases may require specialist referral and further medical evaluation.

Treating Malodour Effective treatment of malodour involves identifying and addressing its root cause. For cases linked to poor oral hygiene, thorough cleaning procedures can eliminate the odour. Brushing teeth three times daily with a suitable toothbrush, using dental floss, and antibacterial mouthwashes are key practices. Dentures and other oral appliances should be cleaned according to dental recommendations.

If malodour is due to dental issues like cavities or gum infections, professional dental treatment is necessary. Additionally, lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking and ensuring adequate hydration, can significantly reduce malodour. Temporary solutions like mint, chewing gum, and mouthwash may provide short-term relief.

At Marmaris Dental, we emphasize the importance of regular dental check-ups to maintain oral health and prevent issues like malodour. Annual dental visits help detect and address potential problems early, ensuring a healthy and confident smile.