Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is usually linked to conditions inside the mouth, including bacteria on the tongue, plaque, tooth decay and gum disease. Food, dry mouth, smoking and some medical conditions can also contribute to the problem.
Regular brushing, cleaning between the teeth and keeping the tongue clean can help reduce bad breath. But persistent symptoms may require an examination by a dentist because treating the underlying cause is more effective than simply masking the smell.
Much of the odour comes from volatile sulfur compounds produced when bacteria break down food particles and other material in the mouth. The uneven surface of the tongue can also trap bacteria that contribute to bad breath.
Foods such as garlic and onions can cause temporary bad breath. Their odours can enter the bloodstream after digestion and later affect the breath through the lungs. Dry mouth can also make bad breath worse because saliva normally helps keep the mouth clean.
Oral hygiene remains important
Brushing the teeth at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste and cleaning between the teeth daily can remove plaque and food particles that contribute to bad breath.
Cleaning the tongue can also help because bacteria can collect on its surface. Mayo Clinic recommends gently brushing the tongue, while a tongue scraper may be useful for some people with a heavily coated tongue.
Mouthwash can provide additional help, but it should not replace brushing and cleaning between the teeth. The American Dental Association distinguishes between cosmetic mouthrinses, which mainly mask odour temporarily, and therapeutic mouthrinses that contain ingredients intended to reduce bacteria, plaque or bad breath.
Dry mouth can contribute
A lack of saliva can increase the risk of bad breath as well as tooth decay and other oral problems. Dry mouth may be associated with dehydration, tobacco use, some medicines and certain medical conditions.
Drinking water and keeping the mouth moist can help. Sugar-free gum can also stimulate saliva production in some people. Persistent dry mouth, however, should be discussed with a healthcare professional or dentist.
Smoking is another risk factor
Smoking can contribute to bad breath and is associated with oral health problems, including gum disease. Tobacco can also contribute to dry mouth, which may further worsen oral odour.
Stopping tobacco use is therefore part of maintaining better oral health rather than simply treating the smell temporarily.
When bad breath persists
Bad breath can sometimes be associated with conditions outside the mouth. Tonsil stones, for example, are small formations in the tonsils that can contain bacteria and cause persistent odour. Postnasal drip and some gastrointestinal or other medical conditions can also contribute.
Persistent bad breath does not necessarily mean that a person has poor oral hygiene. If the problem continues despite regular brushing, tongue cleaning and cleaning between the teeth, a dental examination can help identify the cause.
Dentists may treat gum disease, tooth decay or other oral conditions contributing to the odour. If the cause appears to be related to another health condition, further medical assessment may be necessary.
Regular dental checkups can also help identify and treat problems before they become more serious. Mayo Clinic generally recommends dental visits about twice a year, although the appropriate frequency can vary between individuals.
