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Facts about bad breath bacteria

Bad breath is caused by anaerobic sulfur producing bacteria live within the surface of the tongue and in the throat. These bacteria are supposed to be there, because they assist humans in digestion by breaking down proteins found in specific foods, mucous or phlegm, blood, and in diseased or "broken-down" oral tissue. Under certain conditions, these bacteria start to break down proteins at a very high rate. Proteins are made up of Amino Acids. Two of the Amino Acids namely Cysteine and Methionine are dense with sulfur. When these "beneficial" bacteria come into contact with these compounds, the odorous and "lousy-tasting" sulfur compounds are released from the back of the tongue and throat, as Hydrogen Sulfide, Methyl Mercaptan, and other odorous and bad tasting compounds. These "problem" compounds are often referred to as volatile sulfur compounds.

Fish are high in proteins. As many people eat a high fish diet, logically they make the problem worse. Coffee with caffeine contains high levels of acids that cause the bacteria to reproduce more rapidly and create a bitter taste for many people. Everyone in the world has the same group of bacteria in their mouth. Since they are part of our normal oral flora, you cannot permanently remove them from your mouth. They live in between the papillae that make up your tongue. These sulfur compounds are actually by-products of anaerobic bacteria. Everyone needs these bacteria, because they assist the digestion process. Usually antibiotics or sulfa drugs-which create an imbalance of oral bacteria. When your mouth is dryer, you have less Saliva.

Saliva naturally contains Oxygen, which keeps your mouth healthy and fresh. These bacteria are anaerobic, which simply means that they will thrive and make more sulfur in the presence of little or no oxygen. Thus if you have less Saliva, you have less oxygen, thereby creating an anaerobic environment, perfect for the bacteria to produce more of these odorous and sour/bitter compounds. People with Dry Mouth, products such as Saliva Stimulation Tablets can helps. Improve oral hygiene and perhaps avoid eating some foods without following them by oral hygiene shortly after eating. You can probably not eliminate all of the smell-producing bacteria from your mouth. Mouth rinses might help to mask odours. Fish are high in proteins. As many people eat a high fish diet, logically they make the problem worse. Coffee with caffeine contains high levels of acids that cause the bacteria to reproduce more rapidly and create a bitter taste for many people.

Disclaimer : The text presented on these pages is for your information only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It may not represent your true individual medical situation. Do not use this information to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting a qualified health care provider. Please consult your health care provider if you have any questions or concerns.

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