Bad Breath: Causes and How to Fix It

Bad breath (halitosis) is common and usually comes down to a few causes you can address. Most bad breath starts with bacteria in the mouth — often on the tongue — plus dry mouth, diet, or smoking. Here's what causes it and how to fix it.

What causes bad breath

• Poor oral hygiene. Bacteria build up on the tongue, teeth, and gums, producing the compounds that smell. This is the most common cause.
• Dry mouth. Saliva washes away food and bacteria; when the mouth is dry — from dehydration or medications — odour builds.
• Diet. Garlic, onions, and some spices contain sulphur compounds that are absorbed and breathed out.
• Tobacco. Smoking and vaping dry the mouth and leave a lasting odour, on top of staining teeth.

How to fix it

1. Clean thoroughly. Brush twice a day with fluoride toothpaste, clean your tongue, and floss daily. An antimicrobial mouthwash can help.
2. Stay hydrated. Drink water through the day to keep saliva flowing; go easy on caffeine and alcohol.
3. Watch your diet. A balanced diet with plenty of fruit and vegetables stimulates saliva and helps clean the mouth.
4. Cut out tobacco. Quitting improves your breath and your overall health — see how smoking and vaping affect your teeth.
5. See your dentist. Persistent bad breath can point to cavities, gum disease, or infection. A check-up and cleaning finds and treats the cause.

If fresher breath doesn't follow these steps, book a check-up — there's usually a treatable reason behind it.