Although bad breath might be a symptom of
some other disorder, it most likely stems from dental decay and periodontitis.
Periodontitis is a disease affecting gums and bone that support the teeth, and
it results from inadequate tooth brushing and flossing. In this disease,
the irritated gums pull away from the teeth and form pockets between the teeth
and the gums. These pockets fill with bacteria and pus which give off a foul
odor.
Patients with bad breath need a complete dental evaluation.
If gum disease and/or dental decay is diagnosed, it can be treated readily.
The patient will no longer have an infection in his or her mouth, and he or she
will no longer have the embarrassment of bad breath.