Bad breath (halitosis)

Overview

Bacteria break down food bits and release smelly gases. Gum disease and dry mouth make it worse.

Less often, it comes from sinus or tonsil problems, reflux, or other health conditions.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Bad breath

Less common

• Bad taste
• Dry mouth

When to get medical care

Causes

Mouth germs, gum disease, dry mouth, certain foods, smoking, and tonsil stones.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Gum disease
• Dry mouth
• Smoking

Possible complications

• Gum disease

Diagnosis

A dentist checks your mouth.

Questions you may be asked

• Brushing habits, dry mouth, smoking

The exam

A mouth and gum exam.

Treatment

Better mouth care fixes most bad breath.

Self-care

• Brush twice a day and floss daily
• Clean your tongue
• Drink water and chew sugar-free gum
• Don't smoke

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

See a dentist for cleanings and gum care.

Prevention

To prevent it:

• Brush, floss, clean your tongue
• See a dentist regularly

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Usually easy to fix.

Getting ready for your visit

Bring a list of your symptoms and medicines.

Questions to ask

• Do I have gum disease?

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Bad breath (halitosis)