Bad Breath or Halitosis

Many things can cause bad breath, or halitosis, including:

• Poor oral hygiene (not brushing and flossing properly)
• Gum disease
• Dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Certain medical disorders
• Certain foods like onions or garlic
• Tobacco products

Gum disease, poor oral hygiene and dry mouth can cause bad breath by allowing bacteria to accumulate in the mouth. Certain medications, medical disorders and radiation therapy can lead to dry mouth. Other disorders, such as a sinus infection or postnasal drip, can also cause bad breath.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes bad breath?

Eating certain foods like onions and garlic and using tobacco can lead to bad breath.

If you don't brush and floss your teeth properly, have gum disease or dry mouth, bacteria can build up in your mouth, causing bad breath.

Dry mouth can be caused by certain medications or medical disorders. When there is not enough saliva in your mouth to wash away food particles and bacteria, bad breath can result. Other disorders, such as a sinus infection or postnasal drip, can also cause bad breath.

What is the treatment for bad breath?

See your dentist and hygienist regularly to check for problems such as gum disease, dry mouth and other dental disorders.

If your dentist finds that you build up a lot of plaque from checkup to checkup, he may recommend that you use a special antibacterial toothpaste or mouthrinse.

If your bad breath is due to gum disease, your dentist may refer you to a periodontist, a specialist that treats gum disease.