Bad breath

Causes

Bad breath, also called halitosis, can be related to various causes.
Possible causes of bad breath include:

• poor oral and/or dental hygiene, dry mouth, fasting diet, tobacco
• chronic tonsilitis with tonsil stones
• acute/chronic sinusitis (paranasal sinus) with postnasal drip of pus-like mucous
• stomach and oesophageal conditions with burning stomach acid (reflux)
• foreign object in a child's nose

Treatment

You can treat bad breath on your own by incorporating some simple changes.

Modifications for better oral hygiene:

• brush your teeth at least twice a day
• floss your teeth
• scrape your tongue
• drink enough water
• avoid excessive consumption of coffee, alcohol and carbonated beverages
• avoid a mouthwash that is too irritating
• modified treatment, depending on the specific cause

Latest publication date: 13/12/2023
Supervising author: Dr Vermeiren Judith