Bad Breath: What Causes It and How to Get Rid of it

Bad breath — also known as halitosis — affects nearly one in four people worldwide. It’s not only a dental issue but also a social one, often leaving people feeling embarrassed or anxious during conversations. While occasional bad breath is normal (like after eating garlic or onions), chronic bad breath can be a sign of deeper oral or health problems.

The good news? Most causes are preventable and treatable with the right care. Let’s explore what might be making your breath smell and how to fix it — with practical tips and insights from your dentist in Winnipeg.

Common Causes of Bad Breath

Poor Oral Hygiene

The most common cause of bad breath is poor oral hygiene. When food particles remain between your teeth or on your tongue, bacteria break them down and release sulphur compounds — the main culprits behind that unpleasant odour.

If you skip brushing or flossing, plaque builds up, leading not only to bad breath but also to gum disease and cavities. Even your tongue can trap bacteria, especially at the back, where they thrive in a low-oxygen environment.

What you can do:

• Brush your teeth twice a day using fluoride toothpaste.
• Floss daily to remove particles between teeth.
• Brush or scrape your tongue gently to eliminate bacteria buildup.
• Replace your toothbrush every 3 months or after an illness.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Saliva plays a vital role in keeping your mouth clean by washing away food debris and neutralizing acids. When saliva production decreases — due to dehydration, mouth breathing, or certain medications — dry mouth occurs, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to multiply.

Common causes include sleeping with your mouth open, smoking, alcohol consumption, or antihistamines and blood pressure medications.

What you can do:

• Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Chew sugar-free gum to stimulate saliva.
• Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol, which dry out your mouth.
• Use a humidifier at night if you breathe through your mouth while sleeping.

Smoking and Alcohol Consumption

Cigarettes, cigars, and chewing tobacco not only leave a strong odour in your mouth but also reduce saliva flow and damage your gums. Alcohol has a similar drying effect and promotes bacterial growth, leading to persistent bad breath.

Beyond smell, smoking stains your teeth, dulls your sense of taste, and significantly increases the risk of gum disease and oral cancer.

What you can do:

• Quitting smoking is the most effective step toward fresher breath and better health.
• Limit alcohol consumption and rinse your mouth with water after drinking.
• Schedule regular cleanings with your Winnipeg dentist to remove tar and buildup from tobacco.

Diet and Strong-Smelling Foods

Some foods naturally cause bad breath due to their potent odours — garlic, onions, spices, and coffee being the biggest offenders. These smells don’t just linger in your mouth; their compounds enter your bloodstream and are exhaled through your lungs, making them last longer than you think.

High-protein diets can also lead to bad breath because they produce ketones and sulphur gases during digestion.

What you can do:

• Rinse or brush soon after eating strong-smelling foods.
• Drink water after coffee or protein-heavy meals.
• Eat crunchy fruits and vegetables like apples, carrots, and celery to naturally clean your teeth.
• Fresh herbs such as parsley or mint leaves can help mask odours temporarily.

Digestive or Health Problems

Sometimes, bad breath isn’t caused by your mouth at all. Underlying health conditions such as acid reflux (GERD), constipation, or bowel disorders can produce foul-smelling gases that rise up from your stomach.

Certain systemic diseases like diabetes, liver disease, or kidney problems can also cause distinct odours in the breath.

What you can do:

If your bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, it’s important to consult both your dentist and physician. They can check for gum disease, sinus infections, or other internal issues that may be contributing to the problem.

Certain Medications

Some prescription and over-the-counter medications list dry mouth or bad breath as a side effect. These include antidepressants, antihistamines, and diuretics, which reduce saliva production.

What you can do:

• Ask your dentist or doctor about alternatives or solutions.
• Increase your water intake.
• Use alcohol-free mouthwash or saliva substitutes recommended by your dentist.

How to Cure and Prevent Bad Breath

The best way to treat bad breath is to target its root cause. Here’s a complete checklist recommended by dental experts:

Maintain a Strong Oral Hygiene Routine

Brush, floss, and use an antibacterial mouthwash daily. Don’t forget your tongue!

Stay Hydrated

Water is your best natural mouth rinse. Keep a bottle with you throughout the day.

Eat Smart

Crunchy fruits and veggies clean your teeth naturally, while avoiding sugary snacks reduces bacterial growth.

Quit Smoking

It not only freshens your breath but also dramatically improves your overall oral health.

Visit Your Dentist Regularly

Even with excellent at-home care, you should schedule a professional dental cleaning twice a year. Your Winnipeg dentist can identify plaque buildup, gum disease, or other issues that might be causing chronic bad breath.

Final Thoughts

Everyone experiences bad breath occasionally — after a morning coffee, a garlic-rich dinner, or a long night’s sleep. But if it’s persistent, it could signal a deeper issue that requires professional attention.

At Greenwoods Dental Centre, our dental experts help identify the underlying causes of bad breath and create personalized treatment plans for fresher breath and better oral health.

So next time you reach for a mint, remember: the real solution starts with consistent oral care and regular dental visits. A clean mouth means fresh breath — and the confidence to smile and speak freely.