Bad Breath Causes & Solutions

A woman covering her mouth with her hands.
A woman covering her mouth with her hands.

Bad breath. It’s very common, so if you have it, don’t worry--you’re not alone! Bad breath can be embarrassing and is often an indication of oral health issues. Here’s a quick guide to the most common causes of bad breath and what you can do to stop it.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis, can be caused by a few different factors. Here are the most likely culprits.

Lack of Saliva

Saliva helps to remove bacteria and food bits from your teeth, tongue, and gums. If your body isn’t producing enough saliva, that bacteria and food debris will not be washed away and will stay in your mouth, where they will cause odour. A dry mouth that doesn’t produce a lot of saliva can be caused by a number of things, including dehydration and taking certain medications.

Gum Disease

Gingivitis, or gum disease, is a very common cause of bad breath. Gum disease occurs when plaque builds up on teeth and can lead to more serious health problems if left unchecked. Fortunately, gum disease is often reversible with proper oral care.

Smoking & Tobacco Products

Smoking and the use of other tobacco products is a major cause of halitosis, as well as many other severe health problems.

How Do I Get Rid of Bad Breath?

So, what can you do about bad breath? Try following these steps first. If your bad breath persists, talk to your dentist to determine the underlying cause.

Hydrate

The more water you drink, the easier it is for your body to produce saliva. Make sure that you are drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day.

Chew Gum or Suck Sugarless Candies

Chewing gum or sucking on a hard candy stimulates saliva production. Always choose sugarless gums and candies for good oral health.

Avoid These

Avoid tobacco products as well as foods and beverages that can cause dehydration, including those that are high in caffeine and sugar. If you do indulge in these products from time to time, make sure to drink extra water and brush your teeth after.

Practice Good Oral Hygiene

A good oral health regimen helps to get rid of bad breath bacteria and reduce plaque buildup, resulting in fresher breath. Make sure that you are brushing your teeth thoroughly at least twice a day and flossing once a day.

Visit the Dentist Regularly

Visit your dentist at least twice a year for hygiene appointments and to assess the health of your mouth. If you have pervasive bad breath that won’t go away, your dentist can help you determine the cause and address any underlying health concerns that may be contributing.

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