Bad Breath (Halitosis): Care Instructions

Overview

Everybody has bad breath from time to time, especially first thing in the morning. Saliva has a cleaning action that helps reduce or get rid of bad breath. When you have less saliva, bacteria can grow, causing bad breath. The flow of saliva almost stops during sleep.

Many other things can cause bad breath, such as missing meals, being dehydrated, or eating foods with a strong odor, such as garlic. Other causes include throat or mouth infections (such as strep throat), dental problems (such as cavities), and gum disease. Bad breath can also be caused by medical problems, such as kidney disease.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Mouth care

• Gargle with water.
• Floss your teeth once each day.
• Use a mouthwash for temporary relief of bad breath. Swish it around in your mouth for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
• Brush your teeth, tongue, roof of the mouth, and gums at least twice a day with toothpaste.
• Remove dentures, removable bridges, partial plates, or orthodontic appliances and clean them once each day or as directed by your dentist. Pieces of food and germs can collect on these appliances and cause bad breath.

Healthy lifestyle

• Don't smoke or use other tobacco products, such as snuff or chewing (spit) tobacco.
• Avoid foods and drinks that cause bad breath, such as garlic and alcohol.
• Chew sugar-free gum, suck on sugar-free mints, or drink water, especially if your mouth is dry. Try using breath sticks, which contain the ingredients found in a mouthwash and dissolve in your mouth.

Doctor visits

• Have regular dental checkups.
• Make an appointment to see an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) if you have frequent problems with mouth odor.