Bad Breath (Halitosis)

Bad breath is not only unpleasant, but it can also be a sign of a serious medical condition. In the vast majority of cases, the causes are found in the mouth, so your dentist is the first person to consult. After a brief examination, you’ll find out whether there’s a health issue and what steps can help.

At our dental practice in Zurich, we’re happy to assist you by providing advice on bad breath and, if necessary, initiating treatment.
 

What are the possible causes of bad breath?

Bad breath, also known as halitosis in medical terms, can be temporary or chronic. The cause of temporary bad breath can be, for example, the consumption of certain foods. Sulfur-containing medications can also temporarily cause an unpleasant odor.

If the symptoms persist for a longer period, it is often due to a bacterial infection in the mouth. Possible causes include periodontitis, tooth decay, plaque on the teeth and tongue, abscesses, or ill-fitting dentures. Bad breath is also very common in cases of dry mouth and with regular nicotine or alcohol consumption.

If no obvious causes are apparent at first glance, systemic diseases should also be considered. Halitosis can, for example, occur in connection with gastritis or pneumonia, diabetes, liver disease, kidney failure, or diphtheria. An imbalance in the gut flora can also affect breath.
 

What symptoms may indicate halitosis?

Halitosis is often first noticed by family members, a partner, or other close associates. While it’s often difficult to bring this up gently in such a situation, it helps those affected immensely if they haven’t yet become aware of the problem themselves.

As a self-test, it is recommended to breathe into the palm of your hand or perform a saliva test on the back of your hand. To do this, briefly lick the back of your hand and, after it dries, check whether a noticeable odor is present.

A dentist can also measure odor-causing substances in the breath using a special device called a halimeter. This method is well-suited when an objective assessment is desired.
 

How can bad breath be treated?

To eliminate the unpleasant odor, the underlying causes must be identified and treated. If the dentist detects oral conditions such as cavities or periodontal disease, they will initiate targeted treatment. Tongue and dental plaque can be removed during a professional dental cleaning.

Your dentist will also ask about your lifestyle and dietary habits. This often provides clues to possible triggers. Depending on the findings, it may be advisable to temporarily avoid certain foods and wait to see if the problem improves. The same applies to medications, alcohol, smoking, and other substances that can negatively affect your breath.

If a systemic underlying condition is suspected, your dentist may also refer you to a specialist in another field.
 

How can I prevent bad breath?

Above all, thorough oral hygiene is essential as a preventive measure. In the vast majority of cases, the unpleasant odor is caused by bacterial growth in the mouth. This can not only lead to bad breath but also contribute to conditions such as tooth decay or gum inflammation.

For optimal dental health, professional teeth cleaning is also recommended. This ensures that even hard-to-reach areas are thoroughly cleaned. Additionally, dental and gum diseases can be detected and treated early, even before the first problems arise.

In your daily life, you should maintain a healthy diet, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid strongly odorous foods if you notice problems with bad breath. Smoking and alcohol are also major risk factors for halitosis. Sugar promotes bacterial growth in the mouth and should therefore also be avoided.