Volatile Sulfur Compounds

Bad breath is caused by anaerobic sulfur-producing bacteria which normally live in the surface of the tongue and throat. These bacteria are supposed to be there because they assist humans in digestion by breaking down proteins in specific foods, mucous or phlegm, blood, and the sick or "down" oral tissue. Under certain conditions, these bacteria begin to break down proteins at a very high rate.

Proteins are composed of amino acids. Two amino acids are dense with sulfur. When these beneficial bacteria come into contact with these compounds, odors and bad taste of sulfur are released from the back of the tongue and throat, such as hydrogen sulfide, methyl mercaptan, and other odorous compounds and bad taste. These compounds are often referred to as problem volatile sulfur compounds (CSV), where volatile means vaporous and effervescent, two adjectives which accurately describe their ability to offend other people instantly.

Foods rich in protein
Bad Breath Bacteria love these proteins, and certain foods are packed with them. Milk and cheese and dairy products are most other foods rich in protein. Since your system can not digest them properly, they are available to bacteria for a period of time.

A recent research article in the Los Angeles Times on lactose intolerance showed that nearly 67% of all Americans can be classified as lactose intolerant. This is because, in a diverse population, as we have here. There is a predilection for Asians, Hispanics and African-Americans to be lactose intolerant.

Fish are rich in protein. As many people eat fish food high, logically they make the problem worse. Coffee contains caffeine with high levels of acids that cause the bacteria to reproduce more quickly and create a bitter taste for many people.

Coffee consumption has been one of the problems that my patients before. After starting my treatment, they were able to return to drinking coffee without bitterness thereafter.

Dry mouth
Although some cases of dry mouth are naturally occurring, most cases are caused by these factors; prescription drugs antihistamines, adult beverages, and mouthwashes with alcohol in them. When your mouth is dry, you have less saliva.

Saliva naturally contains oxygen, which keeps your mouth healthy and fresh. These bacteria are anaerobic, which simply means they will grow and make more sulfur in the presence of little or no oxygen. So if you have less saliva, you have less oxygen, thereby creating an anaerobic environment, perfect for bacteria to produce more of these odorous compounds and sour or bitter.