Medicines for Bad breath

What it is

Bad breath (halitosis) is unpleasant-smelling breath. It is common, and, in the great majority of cases, the cause is in the mouth — related to bacteria that break down food particles and cells and produce unpleasant-smelling compounds. The most common contributors are: a build-up of bacteria and food debris (particularly on the back of the tongue, and between and around the teeth), poor oral hygiene, gum disease, tooth decay, and a dry mouth (saliva helps clean the mouth, so reduced saliva — for example overnight, causing "morning breath", with some medicines, or with dehydration — allows odours to build up). Certain foods and drinks (such as garlic, onions, and coffee), smoking, and alcohol also cause or worsen bad breath. Less commonly, bad breath can relate to conditions elsewhere — such as infections of the nose, sinuses, throat or tonsils (including tonsil stones), and, occasionally, other medical conditions — but a mouth cause is by far the most likely. It is worth noting that some people worry about bad breath they do not actually have, while others may not notice their own. Because bad breath is usually caused by oral bacteria, good oral hygiene is the most effective way to address it, with other causes considered if it persists.

How it is treated

Because bad breath is usually caused by bacteria in the mouth, the main approach is good oral hygiene to reduce the bacteria and food debris, which is effective for most people. Key measures include: brushing the teeth thoroughly twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, and cleaning between the teeth daily, to remove food debris and plaque; cleaning the tongue (particularly the back, where bacteria accumulate) with a toothbrush or a tongue scraper, which can make a notable difference; staying hydrated (to counter dry mouth); and regular dental check-ups and professional cleaning, which also allow the dentist to identify and treat contributing dental causes such as gum disease or tooth decay. Reducing or stopping smoking and moderating alcohol, and being mindful of strong-smelling foods, help. Mouthwashes and sugar-free gum can help temporarily (gum by stimulating saliva), though they do not replace good oral hygiene. Managing a dry mouth, and reviewing any medicine that causes it, can help. If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene and dental care, or there are other symptoms, a doctor may consider other causes — such as nose, sinus, throat or tonsil problems (including tonsil stones), or, occasionally, other conditions. The reassuring message is that bad breath is usually caused by oral bacteria and is effectively improved by good oral hygiene — thorough brushing and interdental cleaning, cleaning the tongue, staying hydrated, and regular dental care — with other causes considered if it persists.