Why do I have bad breath every day?

If you don't brush and floss daily, this could be the cause of your bad breath. Poor oral hygiene is often the main reason. The risk of bad breath is higher when eating foods like garlic, onions, pickled scallions, chives, and smoking. However, it could also be a warning sign of an underlying medical condition. Bad breath can have very different smells, depending on the cause, such as a rotten egg or sulfur smell, a fruity smell, a fishy smell, or a urine-like smell.

What diseases can cause bad breath?

Sinus and throat infections can cause a runny nose and bad breath. Pneumonia (lung infection) can cause coughing up foul-smelling fluid. Bacterial infections can lead to tooth abscesses or pus pockets, creating breath odor.

Liver and kidney disease: These two organs help the body eliminate toxins. When they have problems, those toxins can linger and cause bad breath. For example, chronic kidney disease makes breath smell fishy or like ammonia or urine.

Tonsil stones: Stones form when food gets trapped in the tonsils, hardening into calcium deposits. The main symptom is bad breath.

Other medical conditions can also cause bad breath, such as seasonal allergies, post-nasal drip, and digestive problems.

Can chronic bad breath be cured?

People who address the underlying cause can eliminate smelly breath.

If the cause is medical, treatment can help.

Use antiseptic mouthwash to eliminate bacteria that cause bad breath. Your dentist can also recommend a mouthwash that targets specific types of bacteria.

Using fluoride toothpaste helps prevent the growth of bacteria.

Bacterial debris can accumulate on the tongue; use a tongue scraper to remove it.

Change your toothbrush every 3-4 months and make sure to use a soft-bristled toothbrush.

Everyone should establish the habit of visiting the dentist every 6 months for tartar removal, cavity checks, and other dental care.

When should I see a doctor?

People with bad breath should review their oral hygiene practices and make lifestyle changes such as drinking plenty of water and eating fewer pungent foods like onions, garlic, pickled scallions, and chives. If these changes don't improve the situation, see a dentist.

Le Nguyen (According to WebMD)