From the Research
The most effective treatment for halitosis is a combination of daily oral hygiene practices, including brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing once daily, and cleaning the tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush, as well as addressing underlying causes, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Key Components of Treatment
- Brushing teeth twice daily with fluoride toothpaste to reduce oral bacteria
- Flossing once daily to eliminate food particles that bacteria feed on
- Cleaning the tongue with a tongue scraper or toothbrush to remove bacteria that cause bad breath
- Using an antimicrobial mouthwash containing chlorhexidine (0.12%) or cetylpyridinium chloride twice daily for 30 seconds
- Staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dry mouth, which can worsen halitosis
- Removing and cleaning dentures thoroughly each night
- Professional dental cleaning every 6 months to remove plaque and tartar buildup
Addressing Underlying Causes
- For dry mouth, artificial saliva products like Biotène can provide relief
- For acid reflux, medications like omeprazole (20mg daily) may help
- For sinus infections, appropriate antibiotics prescribed by a healthcare provider are necessary These treatments work by reducing oral bacteria, eliminating food particles that bacteria feed on, treating underlying medical conditions, and maintaining adequate saliva production which naturally cleanses the mouth and neutralizes acids, as noted in 2 and 3.
Importance of Proper Diagnosis
It is essential to determine the source of halitosis, whether it is oral or non-oral, to provide proper treatment, as highlighted in 4 and 5. A detailed clinical examination is necessary to detect the etiology of halitosis and provide effective management.