Bad Breath (Halitosis)
The easy cases of bad breath can be fixed by brushing and flossing. Drink lots of water. Use mouthwash and remember to brush your tongue too.
But there are other things that can cause bad breath. Smoking is an obvious culprit. Foods like garlic and onions can cause bad breath long after you brush them out of your mouth. Dry mouth can cause bad breath, drinking plenty of water helps, as does chewing gum.
Some illnesses and medicines may also cause bad breath, and plaque or tartar on teeth and gum disease may also contribute.
Recently Answered
- Q What are the treatment options for bad breath (halitosis)?
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The best way to prevent bad breath is to brush and floss daily. If you don't brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food that collects between the teeth, on the tongue and... Full Answer
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- Q Is it normal to have bad breath in the morning?
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It is normal to have bad breath in the morning but if you think you have constant bad breath or are concerned about the condition, see your dentist. He or she can help identify the cause and, if it’s due to an oral condition, develop a... Full Answer
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- Q Should I avoid using breath mints to treat bad breath?
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Breath mints and mouthrinses are generally cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, see your dentist. He or she can help identify the cause and, if... Full Answer
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- Q What type of toothpaste should I use to control bad breath?
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When selecting a toothpaste, look for the American Dental Association Seal of Acceptance to help you make good choices. When you see the ADA Seal on a package, you can be sure the product inside has been thoroughly evaluated to be safe and... Full Answer
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- Q Is it normal to have bad breath right after brushing my teeth?
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You should wait approximately 30 minutes after eating to brush your teeth. Digestion of food takes time and acid from foods still attacks teeth up to 30 minutes afterward. If you are waiting 30 minutes and your breath is still not fresh right after... Full Answer
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- Q Should I avoid using breath spray to treat bad breath?
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Breath spray, mints or mouthrinses are generally cosmetic and do not have a long-lasting effect on bad breath. If you must constantly use a breath freshener to hide unpleasant mouth odor, see your dentist. He or she can help identify the cause and, if... Full Answer
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- Q How does Vitamin C help prevent bad breath?
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Dr. Mehmet Oz, CardiologyVitamin C can help prevent gum disease and gingivitis - major causes of bad breath. By eating foods rich in vitamin C, you also create an inhospitable environment for bacteria growth. Chow down on citrus fruits like oranges, or grab some berries and... Full Answer
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- Q Can I get bad breath from not brushing?
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Not brushing your teeth can be a cause of bad breath, an unpleasant condition that can be cause for embarrassment. If you don't brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting bacteria, which can cause bad breath. Food... Full Answer
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- Q Why does my mouth taste bitter when I wake up?
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When you sleep, you have a decreased flow of saliva. Breathing through the mouth continuously can also cause dry mouth and bad breath. Both can happen while you're sleeping, resulting in bad breath in the morning. If you wear dentures, be sure to... Full Answer
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- Q What could cause a rotten taste in my mouth?
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A rotten taste could be related to halitosis, also known as bad breath. Bad breath is an unpleasant condition that can be cause for embarrassment. If you don't brush and floss daily, particles of food remain in the mouth, collecting... Full Answer
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