Bad breath: why it happens and what you can do
Bad breath (halitosis) is common and usually comes from the mouth itself: food, plaque on the teeth and tongue, or gum problems. Most of the time it can be improved. Ask us about bad breath at Gentle Touch Dental Clinic.
Common causes
- Plaque and food left on teeth and between teeth
- A coated tongue, especially at the back
- Gum disease or bleeding gums
- Tooth decay or an old broken filling
- Dry mouth, from medicines, mouth breathing or not drinking enough water
- Tobacco, and strong foods like onion and garlic
What you can do at home
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth every day with floss or small brushes.
- Clean your tongue gently with a tongue cleaner.
- Drink water through the day.
- Keep dentures clean and take them out at night.
- Stop smoking or chewing tobacco.
When to see a dentist
- Bad breath that does not go away with good brushing
- Bleeding, swollen or receding gums
- A bad taste in the mouth, or pus near a tooth
- A painful or broken tooth
How we can help
We check your teeth, gums and tongue to find the cause, then explain your options. This may include professional cleaning (scaling), gum treatment or fixing a decayed tooth. If the cause seems to be outside the mouth, we will suggest seeing your doctor.
Common questions
Can mouthwash cure bad breath?
Mouthwash only hides the smell for a short time. Treating the cause, like plaque, gum disease or decay, is what helps.
Can bad breath come from the stomach?
Sometimes, but most bad breath starts in the mouth. A dental check is a good first step.
Worried about bad breath?
Message Dr S. Barath Kumar on WhatsApp or call the clinic to book a visit.
Gentle Touch Dental Clinic · U 74, New No 58, 5th Main Road, Anna Nagar, Chennai 600040 (near Tower Park). Monday–Saturday: 9:30 AM – 1:30 PM and 4:30 PM – 8:30 PM. Sunday: closed; emergency appointments on call at +91 98840 15026. Get directions.
This page is general information and not a diagnosis. Please see a dentist for advice about your own teeth.
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