Eliminate bad breath: If you have this in your mouth, you could have these bacteria

Bad breath, or halitosis, is most often caused by bacteria in the mouth that release sulfur compounds, resulting in unpleasant smells. These bacteria thrive when oral hygiene is poor or when gum disease is present.

Typical signs include a white-coated tongue, swollen or bleeding gums (commonly associated with gingivitis), and canker sores — all of which can indicate a microbial imbalance in the mouth.

Some of the main bacteria responsible are Porphyromonas gingivalis (linked to gum disease), Treponema denticola (associated with periodontitis), and Fusobacterium nucleatum (a known contributor to persistent bad breath).