Can Dry Mouth (Xerostomia) Cause Bad Breath ?

Yes, it can.

Dry mouth (Xerostomia) can leave a bitter or metallic taste even before bad breath (Halitosis) can be detected. Xerostomia make the breath go from bad to worse.

Normally, saliva will help flush away bacteria, food bits and cellular waste that accumulate in the mouth, but when the flow of saliva decreases, important functions such as antimicrobial activities, mechanical cleansing action of the mouth, the removal of food debris from the oral cavity, the re-mineralization and lubrication of the oral cavities are not done.

If teeth and gums are not cleaned properly the remaining food particles and debris will ferment, releasing malodorous Volatile Sulphur Compounds (VSCs). These VSCs love Xerostomia. They will decompose and evaporate faster than normal and produce odours in the drier environment.

Some common causes of dry mouth are

1/ dehydration
2/ excessive mouth breathing
3/ previous radiation therapy to the head and neck due to cancer
4/ using alcohol-based or peroxide mouthwashes and mouth rinses
5/ side effects of recreation drugs
6/ trauma to the salivary glands, ducts or nerves
7/ acute mouth and gum infection
8/ certain medicines, including decongestant, antidepressants and blood pressure medication.
9/ smoking and drinking excess alcohol
10/ using and drinking caffeine related products
11/ eating salty foods, dry foods (such as crackers, cookies, toast) and foods (or beverages) with high sugar contents

Severe Dry mouth can lead to extensive tooth decay, a sticky, dry feeling in your mouth and on your tongue, cracked lips, difficulty in chewing, swallowing, tasting and/or talking, mouth sores, frequent Bad Breath (Halitosis), dentures that do not fit comfortably and many other oral health problems.

Individuals with Xerostomia often complain of problems with eating, speaking, swallowing, Bad Breath and wearing dentures. Dry, crumbly foods, such as cereals and crackers, may be particularly difficult to chew and swallow for those suffering from Dry Mouth.

Find out how you can cure your Bad Breath using products you can find in your cupboard. Get the Bad Breath Forever Report

Download a free copy of Dr Katz's Bad Breath Bible.

Copyright 2008, All Rights Reserved