Why does gingivitis cause bad breath?

Gingivitis is an inflammatory response to bacterial buildup on the teeth. Read this article to learn how gingivitis causes bad breath & prevention. read more

If teeth are not brushed and flossed regularly, plaque becomes a medium for anaerobic bacteria that can lead to bad breath. Eventually, this can cause more serious consequences including bleeding gums, chronic oral infections, and tooth loss. Stages of Gum Disease. In the early stages of gum disease, plaque buildup inflames the gums. read more

The medical condition dry mouth (also called xerostomia) also can cause bad breath. Saliva is necessary to moisten the mouth, neutralize acids produced by plaque, and wash away dead cells that accumulate on the tongue, gums, and cheeks. If not removed, these cells decompose and can cause bad breath. read more

Periodontal disease (inflammation of the gums) can also cause bad breath, as can a dry mouth, which contributes to halitosis because saliva helps keep bacteria in check. This helps explain “morning breath,” since the mouth dries out during sleep. read more