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Dentist Disaster

Habits & everyday niggles

Bad breath

Routine4 treatment options

Bad breath (halitosis) is very common and usually fixable at home. The main causes, what actually helps, and when to see a dentist or GP.

How urgent is it? Routine

Usually routine. See a dentist if bad breath does not go away after a few weeks of treating it yourself, or you have painful, bleeding or swollen gums, toothache, wobbly adult teeth or problems with dentures.

What it is

Bad breath, or halitosis, is very common - the Oral Health Foundation estimates that around one in four people have it regularly. Most persistent bad breath comes from bacteria on the teeth, gums and tongue releasing smelly gases, and from food trapped between the teeth.

The good news is that it can usually be treated at home by keeping the teeth, gums and tongue clean. Mouthwash can mask the smell for a while, but it will not solve the problem if something else is causing it.

If bad breath persists for a few weeks despite good cleaning, see a dentist to check for gum disease, decay or infection. If your mouth is healthy, the dentist may suggest seeing a GP, as dry mouth, sinus and throat problems, acid reflux, diabetes and some other conditions can also cause bad breath.

Signs and causes

Common signs

  • An unpleasant smell others notice or you can detect
  • A bad or strange taste in the mouth
  • Breath that stays unpleasant even after brushing

Usual causes

  • Not brushing or cleaning between the teeth thoroughly
  • Gum disease, tooth decay or an infection
  • Strong-smelling or spicy food and drink, such as garlic, onions or coffee
  • Smoking
  • Dry mouth
  • Fasting or crash dieting
  • Medical conditions such as tonsillitis, sinus problems and acid reflux

Ways to fix it

The options a dentist may discuss with you, and when each one tends to be used. Which one suits you depends on an examination.

  1. Daily oral hygiene

    Most bad breath: brushing twice daily, cleaning between teeth and cleaning the tongue.

    Available on the NHSHome care

  2. Scale and polish

    Removing hardened plaque that home brushing cannot shift.

    Sometimes on the NHSPreventive

  3. Fillings

    Treating decay where food and bacteria collect.

    Available on the NHSRestorative

  4. Gum disease treatment

    When gum disease is the underlying cause.

    Available on the NHSPreventive

What you can do now

  • Gently brush your teeth and gums for 2 minutes at least twice a day with fluoride toothpaste
  • Clean your tongue once a day with a tongue scraper or cleaner
  • Clean between your teeth daily with interdental brushes or floss
  • Chew sugar-free gum or mints after strong-smelling food, and drink water to keep your mouth moist
  • Keep dentures clean and remove them at night

Preventing it

  • Do not smoke and avoid drinking too much alcohol
  • Cut down on sugary foods and drinks
  • Get regular dental check-ups

Common questions

How can I tell if I have bad breath?

It can be hard to tell. The Oral Health Foundation suggests licking the inside of your wrist, waiting a few seconds and smelling it - or asking someone you trust.

Will mouthwash cure bad breath?

Mouthwash can freshen breath, and the NHS suggests an antibacterial mouthwash may help, but it will not fix an underlying cause. If you find you need it constantly, talk to your dental team.

Can a medical condition cause bad breath?

Yes. Dry mouth, sinus, throat or chest infections, acid reflux, diabetes and liver or kidney problems can all be involved. If your dentist finds no dental cause, they may suggest seeing your GP.

Products that may help at home

These support good daily care; they don’t replace treatment from a dentist. Some links may be affiliate links.

Oral-B Satin Tape dental floss

A wide, waxed floss tape. Tape is often easier to handle than thin floss and suits tighter contacts where interdental brushes…

Features & who it suits

Sources we used

Checked September 2026. Guidance changes, so always follow the advice of your own dental team. About our sources.