Bad Breath: Causes and 12 Simple Treatments

Bad breath, medically known as halitosis, is a common condition that can impact personal and social interactions, causing embarrassment and discomfort for those affected. The origins of bad breath are diverse, ranging from simple dietary choices to complex underlying health issues. Understanding these causes can help in addressing and preventing the issue effectively. Let's have a look on some important causes for bad breath:

Causes of Bad Breath

1. Poor Oral Hygiene: Inadequate brushing and flossing allow food particles and bacteria to accumulate on teeth, gums, and the tongue. This buildup leads to plaque and tartar formation, which can result in bad breath.

2. Gum Disease: Gingivitis and periodontitis, both forms of gum disease, are caused by bacterial infection in the gums. These infections produce unpleasant odors due to the bacteria and the decay of gum tissue.

3. Tooth Decay: Cavities and decaying teeth can harbor bacteria that emit foul-smelling odors. The breakdown of tooth enamel provides a breeding ground for bacteria.

4. Dry Mouth: Saliva helps to wash away food particles and bacteria. A lack of adequate saliva, often due to conditions like Sjögren’s syndrome or as a side effect of medications, can lead to bad breath.

5. Food Choices: Foods such as garlic, onions, and spicy dishes contain compounds that are absorbed into the bloodstream and eventually expelled through the lungs, causing bad breath. Dairy products can also contribute to a foul smell in some people. A diet high in sugar can promote bacterial growth in the mouth, leading to more severe breath issues.

6. Smoking and Tobacco Use: Smoking not only contributes to bad breath but also leads to dry mouth and damages gum tissue. It also adds its own distinctive odor.

7. Medical Conditions: Various health issues can cause bad breath, including sinus infections, respiratory infections, and gastrointestinal disorders like acid reflux. Conditions such as diabetes and liver or kidney disease can also result in distinctive breath odors.

8. Infections and Sores: Oral infections, such as those caused by the herpes simplex virus, or sores in the mouth can contribute to unpleasant breath.

Addressing the underlying cause of bad breath typically involves a combination of improving oral hygiene, making dietary adjustments, staying hydrated, and seeking medical advice when necessary.

However, if your problem of bad breath is not caused by an underlying medical problem then it can be treated by following some home remedies which are given below :

12 Home Remedies to Treat Bad Breath (Foul Mouth Odor)

1. Baking Soda

Baking soda is a popular and effective remedy for bad breath due to its natural ability to neutralize acids and reduce odor in the mouth. Baking soda helps to freshen breath and can also reduce plaque buildup.

• (i) Mix 1-2 teaspoons of baking soda with enough water to form a paste.
• (ii) Brush your teeth with this paste for about two minutes,  then rinse thoroughly.
• (iii) Avoid too hard or too often brushing with baking soda, it can damage tooth enamel.

Baking Soda Mouth Rinse Recipe (Alternative Method)

• (i) Dissolve 1 teaspoon of baking soda in cup of warm water.
• (ii) Swish the solution around your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute. Be sure to swish it around all areas of your mouth, including between your teeth and along the gum line.
• (iii) After swishing, spit the solution out into the sink.
• (iv) Optionally, rinse your mouth with plain water to remove any residual baking soda and to further cleanse your mouth.

Use these baking soda remedies a few times a week to avoid overuse, which can potentially lead to enamel erosion or gum irritation.

2. Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is a popular home remedy for various health issues, including bad breath.
ACV has natural antibacterial properties that can help kill bacteria in the mouth, which are often the cause of bad breath. The acidic nature of ACV can help neutralize odors and reduce the growth of bacteria. This acidity also promotes saliva production, which helps cleanse the mouth. Some believe that ACV helps with digestion, and improving digestion can potentially reduce bad breath originating from digestive issues.

• (i) Mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with a glass of water (about 8 ounces).
• (ii) Swish the mixture around in your mouth for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• (iii) Spit it out and rinse your mouth with plain water.
• (iv) Use this rinse once or twice a day.

Always dilute apple cider vinegar with water before using it as a mouth rinse or drinking it. The acidity of undiluted ACV can damage tooth enamel and irritate your mouth or throat.

3. Lemon Water

Lemon water is a popular home remedy for bad breath and offers several potential benefits.The acidity of lemon can stimulate saliva production. Saliva helps wash away food particles and bacteria that cause bad breath. Lemon has a strong, refreshing scent and can help neutralize bad odors in the mouth. Lemon has mild antibacterial properties that can help reduce the bacteria in the mouth contributing to bad breath.

• (i) Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a glass of water (about 8 ounces).
• (ii) Stir well and drink it.
• (iii) You can drink this mixture once or twice a day, preferably in the morning.

Lemon Water Mouth Rinse (Alternative Method)

• (i) Mix the juice of half a lemon with a cup of water.
• (ii) Use it as a mouth rinse by swishing it around in your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• (iii) Spit it out and rinse your mouth with plain water.
• (iv) Do this once or twice a day.

4. Green Tea

Green tea is a well-regarded remedy for bad breath due to its numerous beneficial properties. Green tea contains catechins, which are natural antioxidants with antibacterial properties. These can help reduce the bacteria in your mouth that contribute to bad breath. The compounds in green tea have anti-inflammatory effects that can help soothe your gums and reduce inflammation, which may indirectly improve breath. Green tea has a pleasant, mild flavor that can help mask bad breath and provide a refreshing feeling. Regular consumption of green tea can contribute to overall oral health by reducing plaque buildup and preventing gum disease.

• (i) Brew a cup of green tea according to the package instructions.
• (ii) Drink it once or twice a day.
• (iii) You can drink it hot or cold, depending on your preference.

Green Tea Mouth Rinse (Alternative Method)

• (i) Brew a strong cup of green tea and let it cool to room temperature.
• (ii) Use it as a mouth rinse by swishing it around your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
• (iii) Spit it out and rinse your mouth with plain water afterward.
• (iv) You can use this green tea rinse once or twice a day.

To maximize the benefits, avoid adding sugar or sweeteners to your green tea, as sugar can contribute to bad breath and oral health issues.

5. Yogurt

Yogurt is also very helpful in reducing bad mouth odor. Yogurt contains live cultures, specifically probiotics like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium. These beneficial bacteria can help balance the oral microbiome by reducing the number of harmful bacteria that cause bad breath.
Some bacteria in the mouth produce sulfur compounds that contribute to bad breath. Probiotics in yogurt can help reduce the levels of these bacteria, thereby decreasing sulfur compounds. Yogurt has a smooth texture that can help coat and moisturize the mouth, which may alleviate dry mouth—a common cause of bad breath.
Healthy digestion is linked to better breath. The probiotics in yogurt can aid in digestion, potentially reducing bad breath related to digestive issues.

• (i) Consume a cup of plain, unsweetened yogurt daily. This can be done at any time, but incorporating it into your morning routine might be beneficial.
• (ii) You can use yogurt as a healthy snack between meals. This helps maintain a balance of beneficial bacteria in your mouth and gut.
• (iii) You can incorporate yogurt into smoothies with fruits and vegetables. This not only helps with bad breath but also adds nutritional benefits.
• (iv) Regular consumption is key. Incorporate yogurt into your daily diet for the best results.

6. Parsley

Parsley is a common herb used to freshen breath, and it offers a few benefits for addressing bad breath. Parsley is rich in chlorophyll, a natural compound that can help neutralize odors and reduce bacteria in the mouth. Chlorophyll is known for its deodorizing properties. Parsley contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and promote overall oral health.
Chewing parsley can stimulate saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria that contribute to bad breath.

• (i) Simply chew a few fresh parsley leaves after meals or throughout the day. This can help freshen your breath naturally.
• (ii) For ongoing benefits, incorporate parsley into your diet regularly. It can be added to salads, soups, and other dishes.

Parsley Tea (Alternative Method)

• (i) Steep a handful of fresh parsley in hot water for about 5-10 minutes.
• (ii) Strain and let the tea cool. Use it as a mouth rinse by swishing it around your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then spit it out.
• (iii) You can use parsley tea rinse once or twice a day.

7. Mint Leaves

Mint leaves are a popular natural remedy for bad breath due to their freshening and antibacterial properties. Mint contains menthol and other compounds that have antibacterial effects, helping to reduce the bacteria that cause bad breath.
The strong, refreshing flavor of mint can mask bad breath temporarily. Mint has a cooling effect that can soothe the mouth and throat, which might help if bad breath is due to irritation or dryness. Regular use of mint can contribute to overall oral health by stimulating saliva production, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

• (i) Take a few fresh mint leaves (about 4-5).
• (ii) Wash the leaves thoroughly to remove any dirt or pesticides.
• (iii) Chew the leaves slowly, allowing the mint’s essential oils to be released into your mouth.
• (iv) Continue chewing for a few minutes. You can swallow the leaves or spit them out if you prefer.

Mint Mouth Rinse (Alternative Method)

• (i)  Boil 1 cup of water.
• (ii) Add a handful of mint leaves to the boiling water.
• (iii) Allow it to steep for about 10 minutes.
• (iv) Strain out the mint leaves and let the solution cool to room temperature.
• (v) Use the mint-infused water as a mouth rinse. Swish it around your mouth for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then spit it out.

For best results, use fresh mint leaves rather than dried ones. Regular use will have a better impact on breath freshness.

8. Fennel

Fennel seeds are another natural remedy that can help with bad breath. They have several properties that make them effective.Fennel seeds contain essential oils that have antimicrobial effects, which can help reduce bacteria in the mouth. Fennel seeds can help with digestion and reduce bloating and gas, which can sometimes contribute to bad breath.Their natural flavor can help freshen your breath. Chewing fennel seeds can increase saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria.

• (i) Take a teaspoon of fennel seeds.
• (ii) Chew the seeds slowly, allowing their essential oils to mix with your saliva.
• (iii) Continue chewing for a few minutes, then swallow or spit out the seeds as you prefer.
• (iv) You can do this after meals or as needed to freshen your breath.

 Fennel Tea (Alternative Method)

• (i) Boil a cup of water.
• (ii) Add one teaspoon of fennel seeds to the boiling water.
• (iii) Let it steep for about 5-10 minutes.
• (iv) Strain the seeds and let the tea cool down to a comfortable temperature.
• (v) Drink the tea slowly. You can also use the tea as a mouth rinse.

For the best flavor and benefits, use fresh fennel seeds rather than stale or old ones. Incorporate fennel seeds into your daily routine for ongoing benefits.

9. Sage Tea

Sage tea is a natural remedy that can help with bad breath. Sage contains compounds like thymol and rosmarinic acid that have antibacterial effects, which can help reduce the bacteria that contribute to bad breath.The anti-inflammatory properties of sage can help soothe any inflammation or irritation in the mouth and throat, which might be contributing to bad breath. Sage acts as a natural astringent, which helps tighten and tone tissues in the mouth, potentially reducing the growth of bacteria and helping with oral health. Sage can help with digestion and reduce issues like bloating and gas, which can sometimes contribute to bad breath.

• (i) Heat a cup of water to boiling.
• (ii) Place 1-2 teaspoons dried sage leaves or a handful of fresh sage leaves in a teapot or mug.
• (iii) Pour the boiling water over the sage leaves. Cover and let it steep for about 5-10 minutes, depending on how strong you want the tea to be.
• (iv) Strain the tea to remove the sage leaves.
• (v) You can add a bit of honey or lemon juice if desired for added flavor and additional benefits.
• (vi) Sip the tea slowly. You can drink it once or twice daily, or use it as a mouth rinse by allowing it to cool slightly and swishing it around your mouth before spitting it out.

10. Cucumber

Cucumber is another natural remedy that can help with bad breath.Cucumbers are composed of about 95% water, which helps keep your mouth hydrated. Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining fresh breath and preventing dry mouth, which can exacerbate bad breath.The high water content in cucumbers helps stimulate saliva production. Saliva is essential for washing away food particles and bacteria in the mouth, which can contribute to bad breath.The crunchy texture of cucumber can help clean the teeth and gums by physically removing debris and plaque from the surface of the teeth. Cucumbers have a mild, refreshing flavor that can help mask bad breath temporarily.Cucumbers are rich in antioxidants, such as vitamin C and beta-carotene, which support overall health and may contribute to a healthy mouth environment.

• (i) Wash a fresh cucumber thoroughly.
• (ii) Slice the cucumber into thin rounds or sticks.
• (iii) Eat the slices or sticks as a snack or add them to salads.

Chewing cucumber will help stimulate saliva production and provide a refreshing taste.While cucumber can help with breath freshness, it should be used in conjunction with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups.

11. Apple

Eating apples can be a natural and effective way to help manage bad breath. Chewing apples stimulates saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth. Increased saliva production also helps neutralize acids produced by bacteria.
The crunchy texture of apples acts as a natural scrubber for your teeth, helping to remove surface plaque and debris.Apples are high in dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps prevent digestive issues that can contribute to bad breath.Apples are rich in polyphenols, which are antioxidants that have antibacterial properties. These compounds can help reduce the growth of bacteria in the mouth. The high water content in apples helps keep the mouth hydrated, which is beneficial for overall oral health and breath freshness.
Simply eating a fresh apple can provide the benefits of increased saliva production and natural cleansing. Aim to eat an apple as a snack or as part of your meals.

12. Chewing Sugar-Free gum

Chewing sugar-free gum is a popular and effective method for freshening breath.Chewing gum stimulates saliva flow, which helps wash away food particles and bacteria in the mouth. Saliva also neutralizes acids produced by bacteria.By increasing saliva, sugar-free gum helps alleviate dry mouth, a condition that can contribute to bad breath.The flavor of sugar-free gum (e.g., mint, cinnamon) provides a temporary freshening effect, masking bad breath.Chewing gum can help reduce plaque buildup on teeth, which is a contributor to bad breath.

Some Important Tips To Prevent Bad Breath

• (i) While above remedies can help to reduce bad mouth odor but keeping your teeth clean is crucial. Brush at least twice a day and floss daily to remove food particles and plaque.
• (ii) Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your mouth moist and help wash away food particles and bacteria.
• (iii) Consider avoiding foods with strong odors (like garlic and onions) that might contribute to bad breath.
• (iv) Use an alcohol-free mouthwash to reduce bacteria and freshen breath.While using a mouthwash Never swallow it and always spit out after 10-15 seconds.
• (v) While these remedies can be effective, it’s important to consult a dentist or healthcare provider if bad breath persists, as it may indicate an underlying health issue that needs professional attention.