What causes bad breath?

That first big yawn of the day can be a, well, smelly one. Morning breath has caught the best of us (or our partners!) off guard. Turns out there’s a few reasons you could be experiencing bad breath in the morning or throughout the day. Let’s look at what bad breath actually is, and how to treat it.

What is bad breath?

Bad breath is not uncommon. It can stem from smoking, snoring, drinking alcohol or coffee, or from strong flavoured foods (think garlic or raw onion). It usually resolves itself after you have a drink and clean your teeth.

But if bad breath doesn’t go away, it could be indicative of a dental or other health problem.

Halitosis, the medical term for bad breath, can occur when bacteria in your mouth, caused by an infection, releases a bad smell. Some common causes are:
 

• Gum disease
• Tooth decay
• Mouth infections
• Tonsilitis
• Dry mouth, which among other causes, can be attributed to certain medications or other health problems
• Not brushing your teeth properly
• Not cleaning your dentures or retainer regularly.

When it’s not just bad breath

The related symptoms of halitosis aren’t limited to bad smelling breath. Depending on the cause, you may experience any of the following:
 

• White coating on the tongue
• Sour or metallic taste in the mouth
• Runny nose or post-nasal drip
• Tooth ache
• Constant need to clear the throat
• Sore or inflamed gums.

Symptoms can extend beyond physical experiences. If feelings of embarrassment about your bad breath start to impact your self-esteem or limit your social interactions, know that you’re not alone. Halitosis is the third most common reason for contacting a dentist.

How do I prevent bad breath?

One of the main causes of bad breath is poor oral hygiene so it’s important to get the basics down pat:
 

• Brush and floss twice a day
• Get a professional teeth clean every 6 to 12 months
• Drink plenty of water
• If you wear dentures or use a retainer, ensure you are cleaning regularly and thoroughly.

READ MORE: Daily habits for good oral health
 

Other preventative behaviours include:
 

• Avoid strong smelling food and drink
• Quitting smoking can also help to prevent bad breath, as well as reduce your risk of gum disease.

How do I treat bad breath?

There are also plenty of ‘quick fixes’ to help manage it. Mouthwashes, sprays, lozenges, and chewing gums can all help. If you suffer from sinus issues, treatment such as rinses and sprays are also an option.

Gentle scraping or brushing on your tongue may give you some relief but it’s important to note it doesn’t treat halitosis.

The best way to treat bad breath is to get to the bottom of the underlying cause. Depending on the cause, you may need to consult your dentist or GP.