Say Goodbye to Bad Breath: What Causes It & How to Treat It
Bad breath (also known as halitosis) can be embarrassing and even affect your confidence, but it’s more common than you think. The good news is that in most cases, it’s treatable. In this article, we’ll explore the main causes of bad breath and share practical tips to help you stay fresh and confident all day.
Explore what the Mayo Clinic says about bad breath and how to manage it.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth that break down food particles and release foul-smelling gases. However, other factors can contribute as well:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Dry mouth (often caused by medications or mouth breathing)
- Gum disease
- Cavities
- Strong foods and drinks (garlic, onion, coffee)
- Smoking and tobacco use
- Digestive issues or systemic health conditions (like GERD or diabetes)
Check out our blog on how to prevent tooth decay, which also contributes to bad breath.
How to Get Rid of Bad Breath
1. Brush and Floss Regularly
Brush twice a day and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque that cause odor.
2. Clean Your Tongue
Bacteria accumulate on the tongue—use a tongue scraper or your toothbrush to clean it.
3. Drink Plenty of Water
Staying hydrated helps wash away bacteria and food debris, especially if you suffer from dry mouth.
4. Use Mouthwash Wisely
Choose an alcohol-free antibacterial mouthwash to kill odor-causing bacteria, not just mask the smell.
5. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
This stimulates saliva production and helps fight bad breath throughout the day.
6. Avoid Smoking
Tobacco dries the mouth and leaves a lingering odor—quitting can improve both your breath and oral health.
Need help quitting smoking? Talk to your dentist for personalized support.
When Is Bad Breath a Sign of Something Serious?
If bad breath persists despite good hygiene, it could be a sign of:
- Gum disease
- Tooth infection or abscess
- Sinus infections or postnasal drip
- Gastrointestinal issues
If you’ve tried everything and still struggle with halitosis, it’s time to get a professional evaluation.
Learn more about gum disease and its connection to bad breath.
Professional Dental Help for Bad Breath
At Maxilla Dental, we don’t just treat the symptoms—we identify the root cause. Whether it’s a hidden cavity, gum infection, or dry mouth, our expert team can help you get your fresh breath and confidence back.
📅 Book an appointment now and let us help you breathe easy again.
