Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is a topic that affects many people but is rarely discussed openly. Statistically, approximately one in four adults suffers from it regularly. However, the cause is often not poor oral hygiene alone, but a complex interplay of bacteria and processes in the oral cavity—in other words, the condition of our oral flora. Understanding how this flora functions allows us to take more targeted action against unpleasant odors.
What is meant by oral flora?
The oral flora is the sum of all microorganisms that live in the oral cavity. This includes bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. In a healthy state, there is a balance between "good" and "bad" microorganisms. Beneficial bacteria support digestion, protect the mucous membranes, and prevent pathogenic germs from taking over.
An adult human carries more than 700 different species of bacteria in their mouth. These colonize the teeth, tongue, gums, palate, and even the salivary glands. However, it's not the number of bacteria that matters, but their ratio to each other.
The role of oral flora in bad breath
Bad breath is often caused by the breakdown of organic substances in the oral cavity. Anaerobic bacteria, which live without oxygen and prefer to colonize in hard-to-reach niches, are primarily responsible. These microorganisms decompose proteins from food residues, saliva, and dead cells. This process produces volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs), such as hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and dimethyl sulfide. These substances are precisely what cause the typical unpleasant odor.
If the oral flora is balanced, beneficial bacteria keep the production of such compounds in check. However, if the microbiome becomes unbalanced—for example, due to poor oral hygiene, illness, or medication—the odor-causing germs can proliferate rapidly.
Causes of an imbalance in the oral flora
There are many factors that influence the composition of the oral flora and can thus promote bad breath:
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Inadequate oral hygiene : Plaque and deposits on teeth or tongue are a paradise for anaerobic bacteria.
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Lack of tongue cleaning : A particularly large number of odor-causing germs accumulate on the rough surface of the tongue.
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Dry mouth : A lack of saliva (xerostomia) means that waste products are not sufficiently washed away.
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Diet : Protein-rich foods, coffee, alcohol or spicy foods promote the formation of odors.
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Smoking : Nicotine and tar alter the oral flora and weaken saliva flow.
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Medications : Many medications, such as antidepressants or blood pressure lowering drugs, reduce saliva production.
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Diseases : Periodontitis, caries, tonsillitis or systemic diseases such as diabetes can play a role.
How oral flora and general health are related
Oral flora is not only important for fresh breath, but also has far-reaching effects on the entire organism. Scientific studies show that disturbances in the oral microbiome are linked to diseases such as cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and respiratory diseases. The immune system is also closely linked to oral flora: An imbalance can promote inflammation, which in turn has systemic effects.
This makes it clear: bad breath is not just a cosmetic or social problem, but can be an indication of deeper disorders.
Diagnosis of bad breath
Before you can effectively combat bad breath, the cause must be determined as precisely as possible. Dentists or specialized halitosis clinics offer various methods:
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Organoleptic method : The breath is assessed directly by the doctor.
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Gas analyzers : Devices such as the Halimeter measure the concentration of sulfur compounds.
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Microbiological tests : Examination of the bacterial composition on the tongue and teeth.
Measures for healthy oral flora and fresh breath
A stable oral flora is key to preventing bad breath in the long term. Several approaches can help:
Regular oral hygiene
Brush your teeth at least twice a day and floss or use interdental brushes once a day. Additionally, gently clean your tongue with a tongue scraper.
Balanced diet
A varied diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber promotes beneficial bacteria. Sugary and high-protein foods should be consumed in moderation.
Adequate fluid intake
Drinking plenty of water keeps the mucous membranes moist and flushes away odor-causing substances.
Probiotics for the mouth
In recent years, there has been an increasing number of preparations containing probiotic bacteria specifically for the oral flora. These are intended to help restore balance in the microbiome.
Regular dental visits
Check-ups and professional dental cleanings prevent inflammation and plaque.
Avoiding risk factors
Smoking, excessive alcohol and coffee consumption have a negative effect on the oral flora and should be reduced.
Summary table
| factor | Influence on the oral flora | Connection with bad breath |
|---|---|---|
| Oral hygiene | Keeps bacteria in balance | Insufficient → more sulfur compounds |
| Tongue cleaning | Removes odor-active deposits | Missing → high germ density on the tongue |
| salivation | Flushes away germs and metabolic products | Dryness → increased odor |
| Nutrition | Fiber promotes good bacteria | Excess protein → more VSCs |
| Smoking & Alcohol | Harm beneficial bacteria | Promote unpleasant breath |
| Diseases (e.g. periodontitis) | Change microbiome negatively | Common cause of halitosis |
| Probiotics | Strengthen “good” germs | Can reduce odor |
Conclusion
The oral flora is a fascinating yet delicate ecosystem. If it becomes unbalanced, it not only poses a health risk but often also leads to bad breath. Those who understand the underlying mechanisms can take targeted countermeasures: through thorough but gentle oral hygiene, a balanced diet, adequate fluid intake, and, if necessary, probiotic support. Bad breath is not an inevitable fate – with the right knowledge and appropriate care, the oral flora can be stabilized and breath can be kept fresh in the long term.
