Bad Breath from Stomach Problems

Here are some ways stomachs can cause bad breath and what to do about it.

Ulcers

In some situations, ulcers caused by bacteria can lead to bad breath. World Journal of Gastroenterology reported that the bacteria known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), which causes a common ulcer in the stomach, can cause bad breath in the mouth. As per the report "In India, when administering the triple therapy to 24 patients with H. pylori-positive gastritis and dental plaque, stomach bacterium remitted in 100% of the patients, but H. pyloripersisted in the 24 dental plaques"

Luckily, antibiotics offer an effective treatment to eliminate the bacteria that cause stomach ulcers.

There is generally conflicting information that ulcers themselves cause bad breath, since H. pylori alone does not have an unpleasant odour. However, the above study showed that patients with H. pylori also carried Prevotella intermedia, one of the major periodontal bacteria. If you have bad breath and ulcers, check with your doctor to see if they are related.

Reflux Disease

Another cause of bad breath from the stomach is gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD. This condition is caused by acid coming back up the esophagus, causing a burning sensation in the chest or throat. As per The Times of India, one of the symptoms of GERD is bad breath. It can also cause tooth erosion due to the acid in your stomach carrying into the mouth and weakening your teeth. Damage to the throat and oral structures may also allow certain bacteria to grow in the mouth.

Patients with GERD will have other symptoms as well, and should seek treatment separate from dental-related issues. Those who suspect they have GERD should meet with a physician for an evaluation and test for reflux disease. With proper treatment, you can usually say goodbye to your bad breath.

Is it Really That Bad?

Many people who think they have bad breath actually do not. Although you can test for the presence of sulfur, the dentist usually makes the evaluation based on a sniff test. If bad breath is present, check for cavities or gum disease, the treatment of which often succeeds in eradicating bad breath.

If there is bad breath with no presence of tooth decay or periodontal disease, it may be associated with bacteria living on the tongue. If this is the case, it is important for you to brush your tongue. Some toothbrushes have tongue scrapers on the back of the bristels. Also, consider introducing a mouthwash that allows you to prevent bacteria quickly during the day.

After cavities and gum disease, the third-most common reason for seeking professional dental care is bad breath. If you feel you have it, seek a thorough dental examination. If you're experiencing upper gastrointestinal problems, such as pain or heartburn, a medical examination is also required. You don't have to live with bad breath from stomach problems.