Bad breath, or halitosis, can be uncomfortable and embarrassing in both social and professional situations. From meetings to casual conversations, persistent mouth odor can make anyone feel self-conscious. While gum, mints, and mouthwash may provide short-term relief, these solutions rarely address the root cause.

At New Leaf Dental Care, we focus on identifying and treating the underlying factors that cause bad breath. Many cases can be improved with consistent oral hygiene and regular dental visits. However, if the problem continues, our dental team can help determine the source and create a treatment plan to restore your confidence and fresh breath.

Bad breath can come from multiple sources, and understanding the cause is key to finding the right solution.

Diet and Food Choices

Strong-smelling foods such as garlic, onions, and certain spices can temporarily affect breath. After digestion, these odors can enter your bloodstream and affect the air you exhale.

Tobacco Use

Smoking or chewing tobacco leaves chemicals in the mouth that cause odor and contribute to gum disease, which can worsen bad breath.

Poor Oral Hygiene

When brushing and flossing are neglected, food particles and bacteria accumulate in the mouth, producing unpleasant odors. Plaque buildup can lead to gum disease, and the tongue can also trap odor-causing bacteria if not cleaned regularly.

Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)

Saliva helps wash away food particles and neutralize acids. When saliva flow decreases—such as during sleep, mouth breathing, or certain medication use—dry mouth develops, which can intensify bad breath.

Medications

Some prescriptions reduce saliva flow or release compounds that cause a distinct odor once broken down in the body.

Infections

Infections in the mouth, such as gum disease, abscesses, or healing wounds after dental procedures, can cause persistent or strong odors.

Sinus, Throat, or Respiratory Conditions

Bacteria from sinus infections, tonsillitis, or throat inflammation can contribute to unpleasant mouth odors.

Underlying Health Conditions

Systemic issues such as acid reflux (GERD), diabetes, or metabolic disorders can create chemical byproducts that affect breath smell.