Bad breath plagues millions of Americans every single day. What most people don’t know is that bad breath can be prevented. About 90% of all cases of bad breath are caused by odor-causing bacteria. Not only does this bacteria directly cause bad breath, but can also cause tooth decay. Tooth decay can then directly cause bad breath. It is a never-ending bad breath cycle.

It all starts from the first time you put a spoon full of stew to your mouth. Strangely enough, this delicious smelling stew can end up creating rank bad breath. Once that spoon hits your mouth, tiny food particles can get stuck in your teeth. Most of these particles are knocked loose from liquids and saliva. Some of these particles, however, make a home in your mouth. This causes bacteria formation and plaque build-up which can damage teeth and create bad breath.

When teeth begin decaying due to poor dental hygiene, bacteria have more places to hide. In most mouths, bad breath-causing bacteria reside on the tongue and between the teeth. These locations are fairly easy to reach in order to remove the bacteria. People with decaying teeth, however, have a more difficult time with bad breath. This is because the teeth begin to decay and create great living havens for bacteria. Bacterial pockets can reside under the gum line, where no floss or toothbrush and few dental instruments can reach. These crevices begin housing odor-causing bacteria and plaque, which then make the holes bigger. The larger holes then becomes home to more bad breath-causing agents. It is a vicious cycle.

To prevent bad breath due to bad teeth there are some simple steps to follow. One should brush their teeth twice a day and floss once a day. Regular dental exams and cleanings are also recommended. These should occur about twice a year.

Bad teeth cause a multitude of problems, including bad breath. Be sure to keep your teeth and gums healthy so as not to begin the ugly bad breath cycle.