What is Halitosis

Halitosis is bad breath. Halitosis may be caused by:

• Foods and beverages.
• Poor mouth care (oral hygiene).
• Medical conditions, such as sinus infections, mouth infections, diabetes, and liver or kidney disease.
• Medicines that dry out your mouth.
• Smoking.

Follow these instructions at home:

Oral hygiene

• Floss at least once a day. Ask your dentist to show you the best way to floss.
• Brush your teeth at least two times a day. Use the toothpaste that your dentist recommends. Ask your dentist to show you the best way to brush your teeth.
• Brush your tongue when you brush your teeth. This may help to improve your breath.
• Rinse your mouth at least once a day. Use the mouthwash that your dentist recommends.
• Visit your dentist for a routine cleaning at least twice a year.

Eating and drinking

• Drink enough fluid to keep your urine pale yellow.
• Eat foods that help to keep your teeth clean, such as carrots and celery.
• Avoid foods and drinks that can lead to bad breath, such as:
  • Garlic.
  • Onions.
  • Fish.
  • Meats.
  • Coffee.
  • Alcohol.

General instructions

• Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. These products can make bad breath worse. If you need help quitting, ask your health care provider.
• If you wear mouth devices such as dentures or a retainer, make sure you wear and clean your device properly.
• If you have a dry mouth, try chewing gum or mints that do not contain sugar. Chewing gum or sucking on mints can trigger saliva production.

Contact a health care provider if:

• You develop new symptoms, such as bleeding gums or pain.
• Your symptoms get worse or do not improve with home care.

Summary

• Halitosis is bad breath. This has many possible causes, such as certain foods and beverages.
• Make sure you have good oral hygiene. Also keep any oral devices, such as retainers, clean.
• Drink enough fluid to keep your urine pale yellow.
• Avoid foods and drinks that can lead to bad breath, such as garlic and onions.
• Do not use any products that contain nicotine or tobacco, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes.