How can you tell if you have bad breath?

Lots of small signals can show that you have bad breath. Have you noticed people stepping away when you start to talk? Do people turn their cheek when you kiss them goodbye?

If you think you have bad breath, there is a simple test that you can do. Simply lick the inside of your wrist and sniff-if the smell is bad, you can be pretty sure that your breath is too.

Or ask a very good friend to be absolutely honest, but make sure they are a true friend.

Bad breath is a very common problem and there are many different causes. Persistent bad breath is usually caused by the smelly gases released by the bacteria that coat your teeth and gums. Bits of food that gets caught between teeth and on the tongue will decay and cause an unpleasant smell. So correct, regular brushing and flossing with tongue cleaning is very important to keep your breath smelling fresh. However, strong foods like garlic, coffee and onions can add to the problem.

Gum disease is an important cause of bad breath and has to be dealt with by the dentist urgently. Bleeding from the gums and a bad breath are signs of gum disease and once this is detected thorough cleaning by our hygienist and oral hygiene instruction is imperative. The earlier the problems are found the more effective is the treatment.

Smoking is also a major cause of bad breath as it also aggravates the gum condition. Other medical conditions causing bad breath are dry mouth, infections of the throat or lungs, sinusitis, bronchitis, diabetes or liver/kidney problems. If we find that your mouth is healthy, you may be referred to your family GP or specialist to find out the cause of your bad breath.

How do you keep your breath fresh?

To keep your breath you must get rid of any gum disease and keep your mouth clean and fresh:

• Brush your teeth and gums twice daily with a fluoride mouthwash. Do not forget to clean your tongue as well.


• Cut down on how often you have sugary snacks and drink


• Visit your dentist and hygienist regularly


• Floss your teeth or use interdental brushes to clean between teeth.


• Chew sugar free chewing gum after meals as it stimulates saliva and prevents dry mouth


• Use and appropriate anti bacterial mouthwash that is recommended to you.