Updated Dec 2025
Bad breath (halitosis) happens to everyone from time to time, especially after eating a meal loaded with garlic or onions. But if unpleasant breath lingers no matter how often you brush, it may be a sign that something more is going on. Instead of simply masking odors, it’s important to address the cause. Here are six tips to help keep your breath fresh and your mouth healthy.
1. Chew Sugar-Free Gum
Saliva is one of your mouth’s best defenses against bad breath. Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps wash away odor-causing bacteria. Always choose sugar-free gum, ideally with xylitol, a sweetener that helps prevent bacterial growth. Cinnamon-flavored gum may also help fight bacteria rather than covering up odors.
2. Don’t Forget to Clean Your Tongue
Your tongue can harbor a surprising amount of bacteria. If you skip brushing your tongue, those bacteria can stick around and contribute to bad breath. Gently brush your tongue with your toothbrush or use a tongue scraper for a deeper clean.
3. Stay Hydrated
Dry mouth is a major contributor to bad breath. Drinking plenty of water helps keep saliva flowing, which naturally rinses bacteria from your mouth. If you have chronic dry mouth, your dentist can address this concern with you during your appointment.
4. Watch What You Eat
Certain foods are notorious for causing bad breath (again, garlic and onion), but others can actually help. Green and black teas contain polyphenols that slow the growth of odor-causing bacteria. Spices like cardamom also have antibacterial properties and can act as natural breath fresheners.
5. Stay on Top of Your Oral Health
Daily brushing and flossing are essential, but they’re not enough on their own. Tooth decay and gum disease are common underlying causes of chronic bad breath. Visiting your dentist twice a year for exams and professional cleanings is one of the most effective ways to maintain fresh breath. If you’re searching for “dental cleanings near me,” regular appointments can make a massive difference.
6. Rule Out Medical Causes
If bad breath persists even with good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, it may be time to look beyond your mouth. Conditions such as sinus infections, gastrointestinal issues, diabetes, or kidney and liver problems can all contribute to chronic bad breath. Your dentist or physician can help guide you toward the right next steps.
7. Schedule Dental Cleanings in Wilmington, DE
Professional dental cleanings in Wilmington, DE, can help remove plaque and bacteria that brushing alone can’t reach. These hidden bacteria are often the main cause of persistent bad breath, especially along the gumline and between teeth. Regular cleanings also allow your dentist to identify early signs of gum disease or decay that may be contributing to unpleasant odors.
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