How to prevent bad breath?
To prevent bad breath, good oral hygiene and healthy eating habits are essential.
Halitosis – Bad Breath
A bright smile and a sharp look boost our confidence and help us make a great impression, whether in professional or personal interactions. However, bad breath can ruin the effect, making others want to keep their distance. The challenge? It’s almost impossible to detect your own bad breath.
D1 Dental Concept’s tips to prevent bad breath
- Brush your teeth regularly – ideally three times a day, but at least twice daily. Clean interdental spaces using floss or interdental brushes once a day. See our website for brushing and flossing tips.
- Clean your tongue – use your toothbrush or a dedicated tongue scraper.
- Schedule regular dental check-ups and cleanings – professional tartar removal and dental check-ups with a hygienist and dentist help maintain long-term oral health.
- Stay hydrated – start your day with a large glass of water and drink regularly throughout the day to prevent dry mouth.
- Maintain a healthy, balanced diet – while garlic and onions are good for your health, they can cause unpleasant breath. Avoid them before important meetings. If you smoke, bad breath should be an additional motivation to quit.
- Consume alcohol in moderation – limit intake to special occasions and drink responsibly.
The dentists and hygienists at D1 Dental Concept are available to help identify the causes of halitosis and provide effective solutions.
What causes bad breath?
In eight out of ten cases, halitosis originates from oral health issues.
Oral Hygiene
- Poor oral hygiene leaves food particles in the mouth, which are broken down by bacteria, leading to bad breath.
- In cases of gum inflammation (gingivitis or periodontitis), anaerobic bacteria thrive deep in the gum pockets, releasing a characteristic foul odor.
- Anaerobic bacteria can also develop on the back of the tongue, contributing to bad breath.
- Tooth decay or infections can produce unpleasant odors as well.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
- A lack of saliva worsens the effects of poor hygiene and increases the risk of halitosis.
- Saliva production naturally decreases during sleep, which is why morning breath is common.
- Certain medications can also reduce saliva flow, exacerbating the problem.
Diet, Beverages, and Tobacco
- Foods with strong natural odors like garlic, onions, and coffee, as well as tobacco, contribute to unpleasant breath.
- Excessive consumption of coffee and tobacco can further reduce saliva production, worsening bad breath.
Non-Oral Causes of Bad Breath
Bad breath can also result from medical conditions unrelated to oral health, such as:
- Digestive issues (poor digestion, gastric ulcers, hiatal hernia)
- Liver problems
- Food intolerances or allergies
- Kidney failure
- Respiratory infections
- Diabetes (which can cause an acetone-like odor in breath)
- Strict dieting (producing ketones, which lead to a characteristic odor)
- Alcohol consumption, which is detectable in exhaled breath
If bad breath persists despite good oral hygiene, consulting a dentist or healthcare professional is recommended to identify and address the underlying cause.
Located at the gates of Lausanne, the D1 Dental Concept team welcomes you in comfortable and modern premises, just 3 minutes from the Blecherette highway exit. The building features indoor parking.
