BRUSHING teeth is the first line of defense against bad breath.
Most people assume that a thorough brushing session should completely eliminate unpleasant odors. Still, horrors of horrors, many find that despite brushing their teeth, their breath still has an unpleasant smell.
The reasons are beyond the toothbrush and toothpaste.
One primary reason breath can remain smelly is the presence of bacteria in areas that a toothbrush can’t easily reach. While brushing cleans the surfaces of the teeth, it often fails to reach the back of the tongue, the spaces between teeth, and under the gums.
These areas are perfect breeding grounds for anaerobic bacteria, which thrive in low-oxygen environments. These bacteria produce sulfur compounds, responsible for the characteristic “rotten egg” smell associated with bad breath.
Tongue scrapers or thorough tongue brushing can significantly reduce this problem, but many people skip this step in their oral hygiene routine.
Another reason is the buildup of food particles in the mouth. Even if teeth are brushed thoroughly, tiny bits of food can remain lodged in the gum line, between teeth, or on the tongue.
As the food particles decompose, they provide fuel for bacteria, which in turn produces foul-smelling gases. Regular flossing and the use of interdental brushes are essential to remove these particles and prevent lingering odors.
Dry mouth, or xerostomia, is another significant factor. Saliva naturally helps cleanse the mouth by washing away food particles and neutralizing acids produced by bacteria.
When saliva production is reduced—due to dehydration, certain medications, or medical conditions—the mouth becomes a prime environment for bacteria to multiply. This can result in persistent bad breath even after brushing.
Chewing sugar-free gum or staying well-hydrated can stimulate saliva production and help reduce odor.
Diet also plays a crucial role. Foods rich in sulfur compounds, such as garlic, onions, and certain spices, can temporarily cause strong breath odors.
These compounds enter the bloodstream during digestion and are released through the lungs, meaning that brushing alone may not eliminate the smell entirely. Similarly, high-protein or low-carbohydrate diets can increase ketone production, which can lead to a distinct, sometimes unpleasant, breath odor.
Finally, health issues can contribute to persistent bad breath. Conditions such as sinus infections, acid reflux, diabetes, or liver and kidney disorders can all affect the odor of your breath. In these cases, addressing the underlying health issue is often necessary to improve oral odor, as regular brushing alone may not be sufficient.
While brushing teeth is a critical step in maintaining fresh breath, it is not always enough to eliminate all sources of odor.
Bacteria on the tongue, trapped food particles, dry mouth, diet, and underlying health conditions can all contribute to persistent bad breath.
A comprehensive approach—including flossing, tongue cleaning, hydration, dietary awareness, and regular dental checkups—is essential for truly fresh breath.
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Dr. Joseph D. Lim, Ed. D., is the former Associate Dean of the College of Dentistry, University of the East; former Dean, College of Dentistry, National University; Past President and Honorary Fellow of the Asian Oral Implant Academy; Honorary Fellow of the Japan College of Oral Implantologists; Honorary Life Member of the Thai Association of Dental Implantology; and Founding Chairman of the Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail jdlim2008@gmail.com or text 0917-8591515.
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Dr. Kenneth Lester Lim, BS-MMG, DDM, MSc-OI, graduated Doctor of Dental Medicine, University of the Philippines, College of Dentistry, Manila, 2011; Bachelor of Science in Marketing Management, De la Salle University, Manila, 2002; and Master of Science (MSc.) in Oral Implantology, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany, 2019. He is an Associate Professor; Fellow, International Congress of Oral Implantologists; and Fellow, Philippine College of Oral Implantologists. For questions on dental health, e-mail limdentalcenter@gmail.com/PN
