Halitosis: What it Is and How to Treat It

Halitosis is the medical word for bad breath. Almost everyone has bad breath sometimes, especially in the morning or after eating certain foods. But if it doesn’t go away even after brushing, flossing, or using mouthwash, it might be a sign of something more serious.

What Causes Halitosis?

Bad breath can occur for many different reasons. Some of the most common include:

• Poor oral hygiene routines: If you don't brush and floss every day, food and bacteria build up in your mouth and cause a bad smell as they break down.
• Dry mouth: Saliva helps wash away food and bacteria. If your mouth doesn’t make enough saliva, it can lead to bad breath.
• Foods and drinks: certain types of food, such as garlic, onions, coffee, and sugary foods, can leave a strong smell behind.
• Tobacco use: Smoking and chewing tobacco causes bad breath and can severely harm your gums and teeth.
• Health conditions: Sometimes, bad breath is linked to gum disease, cavities, sinus infections, or certain types stomach issues.

How to Prevent Bad Breath

The good news is that most bad breath can be prevented with good daily habits:

• Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss once a day to clean between your teeth.
• Brush your tongue gently to remove bacteria that can cause odors.
• Drink plenty of water to keep your mouth from getting dry.
• Eat a healthy diet and cut down on sugary or strong-smelling foods.
• Avoid tobacco products to protect your mouth and breath.

It also helps to replace your toothbrush every 3 to 4 months and visit the dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups.

Home Remedies that May Help

Some people find that certain natural remedies can freshen breath, at least for a little while. Chewing fresh parsley, mint leaves, or cloves may help reduce mouth odors. Rinsing with a mix of warm water and salt or using a mild baking soda rinse can also help clean the mouth and balance bacteria. While these are not long-term fixes, they can be a helpful part of your daily routine.

When Home Care Isn't Enough

If you’ve been taking good care of your mouth and still have bad breath, it may be time to talk to a dentist. There could be an underlying problem, like gum disease, a hidden cavity, or even an issue with your tonsils or sinuses.

Your dentist can check your mouth, ask about your health history, and help figure out what’s causing the problem. In some cases, they may refer you to a medical doctor for further care.

Contact us if you're in the Turlock metro area and want to discuss a unique treatment plan to treat your experience with halitosis.