Bad Breath: Causes and What You Can Do About It

Almost everyone has unpleasant breath at times, for example after a large meal or in the morning after waking up. When it becomes persistent, it can make you feel insecure. The good news is that the cause often lies in the mouth itself and can therefore be tackled well.

What causes bad breath?

In most cases bad breath is caused by bacteria in the mouth that break down proteins and in doing so produce volatile, foul-smelling substances. These bacteria live mainly on the tongue, between the teeth and along the gum line. The more coating and food debris that remains, the stronger the smell can become.

Which causes are the most common?

• Insufficient oral hygiene: plaque and food debris between the teeth and on the tongue
• Tongue coating: a layer of bacteria on the back of the tongue
• Gum problems: inflamed gums or deeper gum pockets can give off an unpleasant smell
• Cavities, loose fillings or poorly fitting crowns and dentures where food gets trapped
• A dry mouth caused by too little saliva, medication, mouth breathing or not drinking enough
• Food and stimulants such as garlic, onion, coffee, alcohol and smoking
• Rarely: conditions in the nose, throat, stomach or elsewhere in the body

What can you do yourself about bad breath?

1. 01

   Brush twice a day Brush

   Use a fluoride toothpaste and brush for about two minutes, including along the gum line.

2. 02

   Clean between your teeth Between

   Use floss, interdental sticks or interdental brushes every day, because many bacteria live there.

3. 03

   Clean your tongue Tongue

   Use a tongue scraper or the soft brush of your toothbrush, without pressing too hard, from back to front.

4. 04

   Drink enough water Moisture

   Water keeps the mouth moist and rinses away food debris. Sugar-free chewing gum can stimulate saliva production.

Do mouthwash or chewing gum help against bad breath?

Mouthwash and mints usually mask the smell for a short time, but do not tackle the cause. Use them as an addition if you like, not as the solution. If the smell persists although you brush and clean well, it is wiser to find out what is going on than to keep trying new products.

How do you check whether you have bad breath?

You often cannot smell your own breath well. A simple test is to lick the inside of your wrist, let it dry for a moment and then smell it. Or ask someone you trust. If you also notice a sour or metallic taste in your mouth, that is an extra reason to have your gums checked.

When is bad breath a sign of something else?

Usually bad breath is harmless and temporary. Even so, persistent mouth odor can sometimes be linked to something outside the mouth, such as a cold, inflamed tonsils, sinus problems or stomach complaints. If your breath has a particular smell for a long time despite a clean mouth, or you have other complaints as well, discuss it with your doctor or dentist. They can look together with you at where the cause lies.

When is it wise to visit the dentist?

Make an appointment if the smell lasts longer than a few weeks despite good care, if your gums bleed or recede, if you suspect pain or a cavity, or if your mouth often feels dry. Your dentist or dental hygienist will then find out whether the cause lies in the mouth and, if necessary, refer you to a general practitioner.