How Do I Get Rid of Bad Breath?

Bad breath happens to everyone from time to time. While it is common, it can be concerning if the unpleasant smell does not improve after brushing your teeth or using mouthwash. If you have recently noticed persistent bad breath, you may be wondering what you can do to get rid of it. Below is more information about what causes bad breath and how you can treat it.

What Causes Bad Breath?

There are numerous causes of bad breath. Here are some of the most common:

  1. Poor oral hygiene: Neglecting daily brushing and flossing allows plaque-filled bacteria to accumulate on the teeth. This bacteria, along with decaying food particles trapped between the teeth, can cause the breath to have an unpleasant odor.
  2. Vomiting: Vomiting, whether caused by a stomach flu or another more prolonged illness, can lead to dehydration and dry mouth, both of which may contribute to bad breath.
  3. Sinus infections: Sinus infections caused by bronchitis, a cold, or strep throat can lead to a buildup of bacteria in the nose and throat. This bacterium may cause your breath to have an unpleasant odor.
  4. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): GERD can cause bad breath when stomach acid flows backward into the esophagus. This acidic backwash can irritate the esophageal lining and lead to symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, heartburn, and discomfort.
  5. Medical conditions: Several serious medical conditions can also cause bad breath as a symptom, including diabetic ketoacidosis, liver failure, and intestinal obstruction. If you are experiencing dehydration, fever, vomiting, or other concerning symptoms along with bad breath, you should seek medical care immediately.

How to Treat Bad Breath

The best place to start when treating bad breath is by improving your daily oral hygiene habits. Daily brushing and flossing can reduce bad breath, prevent cavities, and lower the risk of gum disease. If good oral hygiene does not eliminate bad breath, your dentist may recommend additional treatments. If your dentist suspects that an underlying health condition is causing your bad breath, they may refer you to your primary healthcare provider. If the issue appears to be related to oral health, your dentist may suggest several dental treatments, including:

  1. Professional cleaning, mouth rinses, and toothpastes. If plaque and bacteria have built up on your teeth, your dentist may recommend a professional dental cleaning. They may also suggest using a toothpaste or mouthwash that contains antibacterial ingredients to help reduce bacteria that cause bad breath.
  2. Treatment of gum disease. If you have gum disease, your dentist may recommend treatment or refer you to see a gum specialist. Gum disease can lead to bad breath because the gums pull away from the teeth, creating pockets that trap odor-causing bacteria.
  3. Improve Oral Hygiene Practices: Increasing your attention to daily oral hygiene habits can significantly reduce bad breath. Brushing after meals, flossing at least once per day, and using toothpaste with antibacterial properties can help control odor-causing bacteria. Brushing your tongue daily can also remove bacteria and reduce odor, since many bacteria collect on the surface of the tongue.

Related Article: What causes bad breath even after brushing?