Dental advice · Smile by Dr Noura
What causes mouth odour?
Mouth odour, also called bad breath or halitosis, usually starts inside the mouth. Bacteria on the tongue and around the teeth and gums can produce unpleasant-smelling compounds. Persistent odour deserves a check of the cause, rather than simply covering it with mints. [2, 7]
The common causes
1. Bacteria on the tongue and trapped food
The back of the tongue can hold a coating of bacteria and debris. When bacteria break down proteins, they release odour-producing substances, including volatile sulphur compounds. Food trapped between teeth can also contribute. Brushing the teeth alone may leave these areas uncleaned. [2, 7]
2. Gum disease, decay or infection
Plaque build-up can inflame the gums. Bleeding, swelling, a persistent bad taste and mouth odour can be signs of gum disease. Tooth decay or a dental infection may also be responsible. These need an examination, even if discomfort is mild. [1, 3]
Read our related guide: How to treat gingivitis and bleeding gums.
3. A dry mouth
Saliva helps wash away food and keeps the mouth healthy. When there is too little, odour and tooth decay become more likely. Some medicines and salivary-gland conditions can reduce saliva. [4]
Dehydration and breathing through the mouth at night can also cause dryness. If you suspect a medicine is involved, discuss it with your doctor; do not stop prescribed treatment yourself. [5]
4. Food, tobacco and fasting
Garlic, onions and other strong-smelling foods can temporarily change breath. Smoking, fasting and crash diets can also contribute. A persistent problem should not automatically be blamed on the last meal. [1, 7]
5. Causes outside the mouth
Tonsillitis, sinus problems and acid reflux are possible causes. If dental causes have been excluded, a doctor may need to assess other symptoms. Bad breath does not, by itself, diagnose a stomach problem. [1, 7]
What can you do at home?
- Brush twice daily for about two minutes with fluoride toothpaste, including before bed. Spit out the excess without rinsing straight away.
- Clean between your teeth daily. Use interdental brushes that fit comfortably, or floss in narrow spaces. Ask your dental team to demonstrate.
- Gently clean your tongue once a day. Avoid scraping hard enough to cause pain or bleeding.
- Keep your mouth comfortable and moist. Sip water regularly. Sugar-free gum may help saliva flow when suitable.
- Clean dentures thoroughly and remove them at night. Avoid tobacco.
Parents should help or supervise children’s brushing until at least age seven. Persistent mouth odour in a child should also be assessed, rather than repeatedly masked with breath fresheners. [1, 4, 6, 7]
Will mouthwash solve it?
A fresher taste does not necessarily mean the cause has been treated. Mouthwash may help as an addition to care, but cannot replace cleaning or treatment of gum disease and infection. [3, 7]
A Cochrane review found low- to very-low-certainty evidence for the treatments it compared, so it could not establish which was best. Be cautious of products promising a permanent cure. A dentist can advise whether a rinse is appropriate for you. [8]
When should you see a dentist?
Arrange an appointment if odour continues after a few weeks of careful cleaning, or sooner if you have bleeding or swollen gums, toothache, a loose adult tooth or denture problems. [1]
Your dentist can assess the tongue, teeth, gums and saliva, discuss medicines and habits, and recommend treatment for the findings. Professional cleaning may help when plaque or gum disease is involved, but the right treatment depends on the cause. [2, 3, 4]
Concerned about your breath?
Contact Smile by Dr Noura in Dubai Silicon Oasis to arrange a dental assessment. We will listen to your concerns and explain the next steps clearly.
