Halitosis (bad breath): understanding, treating and preventing

Halitosis, more commonly known as "bad breath," is a common but often embarrassing condition. It's not just temporary bad breath caused by a spicy meal or strong coffee, but a persistent concern, often linked to an oral imbalance or a more complex underlying cause.

From a medical perspective, halitosis is caused by volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) produced by certain oral bacteria. These are the ones that give off this unpleasant odor, which can be noticed by oneself or those around them. There are two forms:

• Occasional bad breath , linked to fasting, dehydration or waking up,

• Chronic bad breath, which persists despite good oral hygiene.

This last case deserves special attention, as it may signal a deeper disorder. About 25 to 30% of the population suffers from halitosis at one time or another, with a higher frequency for adults over 40. And since halitosis is a somewhat taboo subject, many prefer not to talk about it, even though there are simple and effective solutions to remedy it permanently.

It's often difficult to detect your own bad breath: our noses naturally get used to it. However, several signs can raise suspicion: a metallic taste in the mouth , a feeling of dryness, or even a bad odor that returns despite careful brushing. If you often feel the need to mask your breath with chewing gum, it's time to dig deeper.

There are a few simple methods you can try at home: lick the inside of your wrist, floss between your molars, and gently scrape your tongue with a spoon. If a strong odor is released, there may be an oral imbalance.

But the most reliable advice remains the opinion of a loved one or, better still, a healthcare professional. A dentist can make an initial diagnosis, or even use a halimeter to measure the compounds responsible for the odor . If in doubt, don't stay alone and consult your dentist.

Bad breath can have many causes, and often several factors combine. So, even if you brush your teeth more often, it's not always enough! Here's an overview of the main causes

Bad breath starts in the mouth in 80 to 90% of cases. The culprits? Dental plaque , untreated cavities, gingivitis , or periodontal infections that favor anaerobic bacteria (those that do not need oxygen to live). These bacteria produce very odorous sulfur compounds.

And let's not forget the tongue ! Often neglected, it can harbor smelly bacteria if it's "loaded." Using a tongue scraper can help.

If the source is not oral, digestion or certain internal imbalances must be examined. For example, gastroesophageal reflux can cause acids or poorly digested food to rise up into the mouth. The presence of Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with gastric ulcers, may also be a factor.

Some chronic conditions such as poorly controlled diabetes, liver or kidney failure can alter saliva or breath, causing a particular odor (sometimes fruity or ammonia-like). In this case, bad breath is just a secondary symptom of a larger problem.

What we eat and drink, as well as our lifestyle , has a crucial impact! Garlic, onions, coffee, cheese, and fasting can all make them worse. Without good oral hygiene , it persists.

Tobacco and alcohol are well-known culprits of bad breath. They dry out the mouth, disrupt the balance of oral flora, and promote tartar . Additionally, certain medications, such as antidepressants, antihistamines , and high blood pressure medications , as well as stress, reduce saliva, promoting bad odors 🫥.

Certain daily habits can exacerbate bad breath, even with impeccable oral hygiene. Foods like garlic, onions, or certain cheeses, rich in sulfur compounds, don't just leave an odor in the mouth: they pass into the bloodstream and are then released through the lungs 😮‍💨.

However, it's not just about diet. Lack of hydration , for example, can dry out and reduce saliva production. And saliva is crucial for naturally eliminating odor-causing bacteria.

Another often overlooked aspect is that of very strict diets or prolonged fasting . When we deprive ourselves, the body releases compounds called ketones, which can give us fruity breath, but not necessarily pleasant.

In short, eating a balanced diet, staying well hydrated and avoiding extremes is the key to keeping fresh breath every day.

It's entirely possible to get fresh breath again! To do this, it's important to address the root cause, not just the symptoms.

Effective cleaning is the best reflex. Remember to brush your teeth twice a day, use dental floss, a tongue scraper , and a gentle (alcohol-free) mouthwash . As mentioned, don't forget the tongue , which is often neglected and is a real breeding ground for bacteria.

To go further: regular scaling at the dentist helps maintain a healthy oral environment and more neutral breath.

If halitosis persists despite good hygiene, it is time to explore other causes: cavities, inflammation of the gums , tonsils or gastric reflux may be involved.

Your dentist, ENT specialist or gastroenterologist will be able to help you make an accurate diagnosis and adapt the treatment.

Mouth sprays, zinc-enriched mouthwashes, therapeutic chewing gum ... These solutions help temporarily neutralize unpleasant odors. They're useful as a supplement, especially before an appointment!

Preventing halitosis is primarily a matter of good daily habits. A complete oral routine (brushing, flossing, tongue) remains the foundation.

When it comes to diet, it's best to limit strong-smelling foods (garlic, onion, coffee) as much as possible and focus on a varied, fiber-rich diet. Don't forget to stay hydrated throughout the day: a dry mouth promotes bad odors.

Finally, certain triggers should be avoided as much as possible: tobacco, alcohol, but also stress . A few adjustments in your daily life can be enough to permanently prevent halitosis 💪.

If, despite impeccable cleanliness, your breath remains persistently unpleasant, it is wise to consult a professional .

Persistent halitosis is not normal and may indicate an imbalance that needs to be diagnosed. Pay attention to certain signs: mouth pain, bleeding gums, heartburn, a very coated tongue, or a feeling of a lump in the throat... These are all signs that should not be ignored.

The right thing to do? Make an appointment with a dentist for an initial assessment. If no obvious oral cause is found, your general practitioner can refer you to a specialist for further investigation. Remember that it's better to seek medical help early than to live with avoidable discomfort, especially since there are now concrete solutions to improve the situation in a lasting way.