Causes of Halitosis
Oral cavity inflammation and bleeding from the gums or any other site within the
oral cavity secondary to infection, trauma, tumors, bleeding disorders etc., produce a particularly unattractive odor.
Dental caries does not usually cause
Halitosis, unless there is a dental abscess or necrotic pulp space infection. Food and epithelial debris trapped between teeth, especially in areas of periodontal disease or within dental appliances, such as dentures and bridges gradually get broken down by bacteria, causing a foul odor.
Infection in the nose and Para-nasal sinuses, particularly involving anaerobic and gram negative bacteria, cause destruction of normal mucosal function, leading to stasis of secretions and secondary bacterial infection. Destruction of the mucosal lining of the nasal passages is one of the potential consequences of rhinitis medicamentosa (nasal damage resulting from excessive and prolonged use of nasal drops). In most cases, excellent oral hygiene with good
dental and gum care can help eliminate odor of oral origin.
