Dr. Andre Jock, a specialist in dentistry and orthodontics, points out that bad breath is not related to the stomach, in most cases.
According to him, bad breath originates in the mouth as a result of the proliferation of bacteria found in plaque buildup, on the teeth and tongue, in gum pockets, and in hard-to-reach areas between the teeth. These bacteria produce compounds that cause the unpleasant odor. Chewing gum, using mouthwash, or taking stomach remedies will not significantly improve the situation until this source is eliminated.
The foul odor is caused by volatile sulfur compounds released by bacteria that thrive in anaerobic environments. Simply put, limescale, food scraps, and a lack of oxygen create ideal conditions for their growth.
The specialist points out that the most vulnerable areas include the tongue, the spaces between the teeth, and the gum pockets. Even with regular brushing, people often neglect these areas. As a result, bacteria accumulate, causing persistent bad breath that cannot be eliminated with gum or mouthwash.
He says: "Gum disease is a separate problem. Bleeding, inflammation, and periodontitis are associated with the active growth of pathogenic microbes. In such cases, the odor becomes more pronounced and persistent."
Another often overlooked factor is the position and bite of the teeth. Crowded teeth, difficult-to-reach areas, and irregularities complicate the cleaning process. A person may brush their teeth thoroughly, but may not be able to clean all surfaces completely. In such cases, the problem can become chronic.
According to him, this also applies to mouth breathing. When mucous membranes dry out, natural defense mechanisms weaken, and saliva production, which is supposed to remove bacteria, decreases. This exacerbates bad breath, especially in the morning or during prolonged conversations.
He notes that in rare cases, gastrointestinal disorders can cause this odor. However, the esophagus is normally closed, and stomach odors don't constantly leak out. This is only possible in cases of severe disorders, such as severe gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). These conditions are usually accompanied by other symptoms: heartburn, pain, and discomfort after eating.
He says: "There are less obvious causes, such as ear, nose and throat infections, smoking and taking certain medications for a long period that reduce saliva production."
