Note: This article is for general information purposes and does not replace individual dental advice.

Anyone who has ever had to deal with bad breath knows just how unpleasant it can be. Foul-smelling breath is not only bothersome for those affected, but also for the people around them.

Bad breath: causes and treatment

Temporary bad breath after eating dishes containing garlic is quickly forgiven. Those who suffer from chronic bad breath, however, may find themselves pushed to the social sidelines. It does not have to come to that. In most cases, the cause of the unpleasant odour can be identified and treated quickly.

How foul-smelling breath develops

Unpleasant odours from the mouth very rarely have serious causes. With chronic bad breath, a distinction is made between two types. In the form known as "foetor ex ore", the unpleasant odour arises when breathing out. It is only noticeable when speaking or when the mouth is open. The cause lies in nearby regions such as the oral cavity or the tonsils.

The other variant of bad breath is "halitosis". Here, the unpleasant odour can also be detected through the nose and is therefore almost permanently noticeable. However, only ten per cent of all those affected suffer from this type. Its causes are found primarily in the oral cavity and the nasopharynx.

Bacteria are most frequently responsible for the unpleasant odour from the mouth. The bacteria feed on food particles and cell debris in order to survive. In the form of plaque, they can often even be felt on the tooth surfaces. With irregular oral hygiene, they multiply and find a perfect refuge in the spaces between the teeth and on the tongue.

Other causes of bad breath

Besides plaque on the teeth and tongue, there are numerous other causes of bad breath. These include, above all, food, drink and stimulants. Onions, garlic and alcohol in particular make breath worse. Smoking and coffee can also be triggers. Reduced saliva flow caused by snoring or breathing with an open mouth can be a cause as well.

Especially with increasing age, the mouth dries out quickly. In addition, inflammation of the oral mucosa, changes to the oral mucosa, tooth decay and fungal infections can trigger foul-smelling breath. Simple home remedies can help prevent bad breath. Those already affected can use simple measures to get rid of their bad breath.

When those affected should see a doctor

With regular oral hygiene, those affected can get rid of bad breath. As people are usually the last to notice their own foul-smelling breath, treatment by a doctor can be difficult. Symptoms that persist over a longer period and cannot be eliminated either by brushing the teeth or by using mouthwashes should be examined by a doctor. Since foul-smelling breath can sometimes originate in the stomach, a visit to the GP is also advisable. If neither the dentist nor the GP can identify a cause, further specialists should be consulted. We are happy to advise you personally on what to do in such a case.

These household tips help with foul-smelling breath

Above all, correct tooth brushing helps prevent bad breath. With apples or apple cider vinegar, those affected can get rid of bad breath. After eating dishes containing garlic, such as a doner kebab or spaghetti aglio e olio, it can help to eat an apple. The fruit contains secondary plant compounds that have an antibacterial effect and combat bad breath. Alternatively, a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar can also be used.