SHERIDAN, WYOMING – April 6, 2025 - Understanding Halitosis: A Widespread and Often Misunderstood Condition
Bad breath—medically referred to as halitosis—affects nearly one in four people globally. Despite its prevalence, many individuals remain unaware of their condition until it escalates into a social or professional issue. While occasional bad breath is common, persistent halitosis can indicate deeper oral or systemic health concerns.
According to leading studies, the primary cause of long-term or recurring halitosis lies within the mouth. Intraoral factors, particularly poor oral hygiene, drive the overproduction of volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs), which are responsible for unpleasant odors. These VSCs are produced by oral bacteria when hygiene routines falter, leading to plaque buildup, gum disease, and ultimately, persistent bad breath.
The Oral Microbiome and Its Critical Balance
The human mouth houses a complex microbial ecosystem, known as the oral microbiome, which includes bacteria, fungi, and viruses. While many of these microorganisms are essential to oral and systemic health, imbalances can lead to significant complications.
“When oral hygiene routines are not correct, this can lead to oral health problems such as gum disease, caries and bad breath,” explains researchers. A disrupted microbiome fosters the growth of harmful bacteria that contribute to foul-smelling breath and gum inflammation.
Saliva, Dry Mouth, and Morning Breath
Saliva plays a crucial role in maintaining oral cleanliness by neutralizing acids and flushing away bacteria. Individuals suffering from dry mouth, or hyposalivation, often experience increased VSC levels. This is especially noticeable upon waking, when reduced saliva flow during sleep contributes to “morning breath.”
Gum Disease: The Hidden Contributor
Gingivitis and its more severe counterpart, periodontitis, are significant contributors to halitosis. “Gum disease causes a build-up of foul-smelling sulphur compounds in the mouth, as gum pockets are deeper in inflamed gums than in healthy gums,” researchers note. Alarmingly, up to 70% of Finnish adults are affected by periodontitis, underscoring the global nature of the issue.
Beyond the Mouth: External Factors That Influence Breath
Roughly 10% of halitosis cases stem from extraoral factors. Diet is a major influence, with sulphur-rich foods such as garlic, onions, and excessive protein intake playing a role. Additionally, gastrointestinal conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can disrupt the mouth’s pH balance, leading to an acidic environment and foul odor.
More alarmingly, persistent halitosis may signal systemic health issues, including respiratory infections, diabetes (ketoacidosis), or even cardiovascular disease. “Odour problems may therefore be an early warning sign of an increased risk of cardiovascular disease,” a source emphasizes.
Tackling Halitosis at Its Source: Effective Oral Hygiene
The cornerstone of halitosis prevention is robust oral care. Brushing twice daily, flossing, and tongue cleaning can significantly reduce bacterial buildup. “The white coating that builds up on [the tongue] is the same bacterial film that covers the teeth and is often the cause of bad breath.”
The Lumoral Solution: A Scientific Leap in Oral Health
Developed by Finnish health technology company Koite Health, Lumoral is an innovative oral hygiene device designed to complement traditional brushing. Backed by scientific research, Lumoral uses dual-light photodynamic therapy to selectively target and reduce plaque bacteria.
“The antimicrobial effect of Lumoral… does not affect bacteria elsewhere on the oral mucosa. It is therefore safe to use regularly,” note the developers. Unlike conventional mouthwashes, which indiscriminately destroy oral flora and may contain alcohol linked to oral cancer, Lumoral offers a targeted, non-invasive, and resistance-free solution.
A Safer, More Effective Alternative to Mouthwash
Mouthwashes containing alcohol or agents like chlorhexidine pose concerns over long-term use, including altered taste and tooth discoloration. “Lumoral has also been shown to have a stronger antibacterial effect than mouthwashes, but because of its targeted action, it does not disturb the biodiversity of the oral microbial flora.”
As a Class II CE-approved medical device, Lumoral is particularly beneficial for individuals with gum disease, the elderly, and those with compromised oral hygiene routines. It is now being positioned as a critical tool in addressing chronic halitosis and advancing preventive dental care.
About Koite Health
Founded in 2018 by Sakari Nikinmaa, Tommi Pätilä, and Juha Rantala, Koite Health emerged from projects supported by Business Finland and Aalto University. The company has gained recognition as one of Europe’s top health technology firms, with Lumoral marking a milestone in user-friendly, science-backed dental innovation.
Call to Action
For professionals seeking to improve patient outcomes and elevate dental care standards, incorporating Lumoral into daily oral hygiene routines offers a powerful, scientifically validated tool to combat halitosis at its source.
For further details, visit the official Lumoral website: www.lumoral.com