General practice·General practice
Bad breath
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Bad breath, also called halitosis, is an unpleasant odor coming from your mouth. It is often caused by bacteria breaking down food particles in your mouth.
Key facts
- Bad breath affects most people at some point in their lives.
- In most cases, it is caused by poor oral hygiene, gum disease, or dry mouth.
- With good oral care and regular dental checkups, bad breath can usually be improved or prevented.
Yes, bad breath is very common. It affects many people from time to time and is often temporary.
Bad breath can affect anyone, but it is more common in people with poor dental hygiene, smokers, or those who have dry mouth, gum disease, or certain medical conditions.