Bad breath is common, and it is usually fixable

Almost everyone has bad breath at some point, especially first thing in the morning. When it keeps coming back, there is almost always a reason. In most cases it starts in the mouth, not the stomach, and it responds well to the right care.

The usual suspects

Where bad breath comes from: tongue coating, gum disease, cavities, dry mouth

  • Coating on the tongue. The back of the tongue holds bacteria that release smelly sulphur compounds. This is a very common cause.
  • Plaque and food between teeth. Missed spots start to smell within hours.
  • Gum disease. Infected gums and pockets give a persistent bad smell or taste. See our guide to bleeding gums.
  • Cavities and broken fillings that trap food.
  • Dry mouth. Saliva washes bacteria away. Mouth breathing, some medicines, dehydration and fasting all reduce it.
  • Tobacco, paan and certain foods such as onion and garlic.
  • Dentures that are not cleaned well.
  • Other causes. Tonsil stones, sinus or throat infections and, less often, digestive or medical conditions can contribute. A dentist can rule out the mouth first.

What works at home

  1. Brush twice a day for two minutes and spend a few seconds on your gumline.
  2. Clean between your teeth every day with floss or interdental brushes. This is the step most people skip.
  3. Clean your tongue. Use a tongue scraper or your toothbrush, from back to front, gently. Rinse it between strokes.
  4. Drink water through the day and eat regular meals. Sugar-free gum can help stimulate saliva.
  5. Replace your toothbrush every three months, or sooner if it looks worn.
  6. Clean dentures and retainers daily, and remove dentures at night.
  7. Cut down on tobacco.
  8. Use mouthwash as a helper, not a fix. It masks odour for a short time but does not remove the cause. If you use one, an alcohol-free option is gentler on a dry mouth.

Why it can come back even when you brush

If the cause is gum disease, a cavity, or built-up tartar, brushing alone cannot clear it. A professional scale and polish removes deposits you cannot reach. We will also check for hidden decay and for how well your fillings fit. Learn how cavities form and how to prevent them.

When to get it checked

See a dentist if:

  • Bad breath lasts more than a couple of weeks despite good cleaning
  • You have bleeding, swollen gums or a bad taste
  • A tooth hurts, or you see a hole or dark spot
  • You have a dry mouth that does not improve
  • You notice other symptoms such as a persistent sore throat, or weight loss and tiredness. In that case, please also see your doctor.

A quick breath test

You can check for odour by licking the back of your wrist, letting it dry for a few seconds, and smelling it. Or ask someone you trust to tell you honestly. We are used to this conversation and will never make you feel awkward about it.

Book a check-up and clean at Bite Dental: A-52, Meera Bagh, New Delhi 110087 (+91 75339 51611) or MedHarbour Hospital, 1st Floor, Room 222, Sector 51, Gurugram 122003 (+91 98106 64561). Open Monday to Saturday, 10 am to 8 pm. This article is general information and not a substitute for an examination.