When these levels of vsc gets high it becomes detectable as bad breath. Halitosis is rarely associated with certain medical conditions eg diabetes. If the onset is sudden, grows noticeably worse over a short period of time and is associated with fever, see a doctor. Anything that decreases the flow of saliva or stimulates the growth of anaerobic bacteria. Saliva irrigates the mouth, stimulates swallowing thereby flushing away debris.
Morning breath occurs due to decreased salivary flow during sleep .
As saliva contains oxygen, the dryer your mouth and the thicker your saliva, the less the washing action and the lower the oxygen level creating a more anaerobic environment for bacteria to produce sulfur compounds. This oral stagnation is more pronounced in mouth breathers and those who snore. Alcohol and even certain mouthwashes containing alcohol can dry the oral tissues causing bacteria to profilerate. Certain medications for high blood pressure, antihistamines and depression can decrease saliva flow. Dehydration and stress also reduces the flow of saliva.