18 Oct 2026
Your Child's First Dental Visit: When to Go and What to Expect
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Bad Breath (Halitosis): Causes and How to Get Rid of It
Most bad breath starts in the mouth. Learn the common causes, including gum disease, dry mouth and fasting, and the daily habits and treatments that help.
Quick answer
Most bad breath comes from bacteria in the mouth, especially on the back of the tongue, between the teeth and under the gums. Brushing twice a day, cleaning between teeth, cleaning the tongue, drinking enough water and stopping smoking usually help. Persistent bad breath can be a sign of gum disease or tooth decay, so see a dentist if it doesn't improve.
Bad breath is common and can be embarrassing, but in most cases the cause is in the mouth and easy to treat.
Common causes
- Plaque and food debris on teeth and between them
- A coated tongue, especially at the back
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay or a broken filling
- Dry mouth, from dehydration, mouth breathing, some medicines, or fasting
- Smoking and shisha
- Strong foods such as garlic, onions and spices
- Less commonly: sinus or throat infections, reflux, or medical conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes
Daily habits that help
- Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth every day.
- Clean your tongue gently with your brush or a tongue scraper.
- Drink water regularly to keep your mouth moist.
- Clean dentures daily and remove them at night.
- Stop smoking.
- Chew sugar-free gum after meals.
During Ramadan
Fasting reduces saliva, which can cause bad breath during the day. Brush and clean between teeth after suhoor and iftar, and drink water between iftar and suhoor.
When to see a dentist
- Bad breath that doesn't improve with good cleaning
- Bleeding, swollen or receding gums
- Loose teeth
- A bad taste in the mouth or a painful tooth
Your dentist can check for gum disease and decay and provide a professional teeth cleaning.
Frequently asked questions
Does mouthwash cure bad breath?
Mouthwash can mask odour for a short time but doesn't fix the cause. Cleaning the teeth, gums and tongue matters most.
How can I tell if I have bad breath?
Lick the inside of your wrist, let it dry for a few seconds, then smell it. Or ask someone you trust.
