We’ve all had moments where our breath wasn’t exactly minty fresh — but if you’re dealing with persistent bad breath (halitosis), it can affect your confidence, conversations, and quality of life.
The good news? With the right care, it’s absolutely possible to prevent bad breath permanently — not just mask it temporarily with gum or mints.
Here’s what causes bad breath, and what you can do to keep your mouth feeling clean and your breath smelling fresh long term.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath can come from a number of sources — but most often, it’s due to bacteria in the mouth. These bacteria break down food particles and proteins, releasing foul-smelling gases.
Common causes include:
- Poor oral hygiene
- Gum disease
- Dry mouth (xerostomia)
- Food particles stuck between teeth
- Certain foods (garlic, onions, coffee)
- Tobacco use
- Medical conditions like sinus infections, acid reflux, or diabetes
1. Brush and Floss — Properly and Consistently
A strong oral hygiene routine is the foundation of fresh breath.
- Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste (especially after meals)
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and replace it every 3 months
- Don’t forget to brush your tongue — it harbours bacteria!
- Floss daily to remove food debris and plaque between teeth
Tip: Electric toothbrushes can be more effective at removing buildup than manual brushing alone.
2. Keep Your Tongue Clean
The tongue is often overlooked — but it’s one of the most common sources of bad breath.
- Use a tongue scraper or your toothbrush to gently clean the surface
- Focus on the back of the tongue, where most bacteria accumulate
3. Rinse with an Alcohol-Free Mouthwash
Mouthwash can help reduce bacteria, but many over-the-counter products contain alcohol, which dries the mouth and may make breath worse long term.
Look for a non-alcoholic, antibacterial rinse, or ask your dentist for a professional recommendation.
4. Stay Hydrated
Saliva helps clean the mouth and neutralize odour-causing bacteria. Dry mouth — whether from medications, snoring, or dehydration — can lead to bad breath.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day
- Try chewing sugar-free gum with xylitol to stimulate saliva
- Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and tobacco, which can worsen dryness
5. Watch What You Eat
While garlic and onions are healthy, they can linger in the mouth — and even in your bloodstream — affecting your breath.
- Rinse or brush after eating strong-smelling foods
- Eat crunchy fruits and veggies (like apples or carrots) to help clean the mouth
- Limit sugary snacks and acidic drinks, which fuel bacteria
6. Quit Tobacco Products
Smoking or using chewing tobacco contributes to:
- Persistent bad breath
- Dry mouth
- Staining
- Gum disease
- Increased risk of oral cancers
Quitting can dramatically improve not just your breath, but your overall oral and general health.
7. Treat Gum Disease or Infections Promptly
If you have persistent bad breath despite good hygiene, it could be a sign of:
- Gingivitis or periodontitis
- Tooth decay
- Infected dental work or wisdom teeth
- Mouth ulcers or thrush
Your dentist or hygienist can perform a full exam, clean below the gumline, and recommend further treatment if needed.
8. Visit Your Dentist Regularly
Seeing your dentist every 6 months (or more if recommended) helps prevent and detect problems before they affect your breath.
Professional cleanings remove tartar and bacteria in places brushing and flossing can’t reach — plus, your dentist can assess any medical or dental issues contributing to halitosis.
Final Thoughts
Fresh breath starts with a healthy mouth. By combining daily care, professional support, and lifestyle adjustments, you can get rid of bad breath for good — and feel more confident every time you smile, speak, or laugh.
Struggling with bad breath that won’t go away? We’re here to help.
Our dental team will assess the cause and create a personalized plan to get your oral health — and your breath — back on track. Book your appointment today and breathe easy again.