Got bad breath?

This story first appeared in Healthy You - January 2026, The Gazette’s quarterly health publication.

We’ve all been there: a moment when you realize you have bad breath and there is no gum or mint within reach. Even if you regularly brush your teeth, that is only one part of oral hygiene.

“Brushing alone does not get rid of all of the bacteria in your mouth. Removing bacteria from your tongue, cheeks and the back of your throat are equally important for your oral health,” said Kaela Chesnut, registered dental hygienist at Cedar Rapids Smile Center.

To prevent or reduce halitosis, routine is key. In addition to brushing twice a day, Chesnut recommends flossing or using a water flosser, scraping your tongue, and rinsing daily with an alcohol-free mouth rinse to ensure you are removing the bacteria from all areas in your mouth.

What causes chronic halitosis or persistent bad breath? Chesnut details a number of things.

To prevent dry mouth, hydration is key.

“Saliva production and hydration are important in maintaining fresh breath. Drinking lots of water and staying hydrated will help your saliva production,” Chesnut said. “Being able to rinse away the bacteria will not only help with keeping your breath fresh but also reducing the risk of developing cavities. Limiting the amount of sugar in your diet can also reduce the risk of cavities.”

Mouthwash may contain an ingredient that could have the opposite effect: alcohol.

“A common mistake to try and fix bad breath is using a mouth rinse containing alcohol,” Chesnut said. “Alcohol is very drying, which makes it difficult for your mouth to rinse the bacteria away. Using an alcohol-free mouth rinse will prevent your mouth from getting dry and can help remove bacteria.”

Persistent bad breath can be a sign of more serious health concerns. She recommends if you have a thorough oral hygiene routine and still have issues with bad breath, talk to your dentist and dental hygienist.

Even with great oral hygiene, a tooth infection can be a cause of bad breath.

“Periodontitis is an infection of the gums and can cause chronic bad breath as well. These infections require treatment and do not go away on their own,” Chesnut said.

There is also a link between systemic health problems and oral health issues.

“People with periodontal disease are two to three times more likely to experience a heart attack, stroke or other serious cardiovascular events,” she said. “People with diabetes are at an increased risk for periodontal disease; almost 95 percent of adults with diabetes also have periodontal disease. People who smoke are also at a higher risk of developing gum disease. Acid reflux can cause erosion, making teeth weaker and more prone to cavities.”

Treatments are available for periodontal disease. Scaling and root planing are deep cleanings to remove tartar and bacteria underneath your gums.

Chesnut recommends when looking for oral hygiene products, check for the American Dental Association (ADA) stamp of approval.

“This will help you know that the product is effective, safe to use and is backed by scientific evidence. A good mouth rinse brand is Therabreath; it is alcohol free and sold at most stores,” she said. Changing your toothbrush or electric toothbrush head every three to four months is also recommended.”

Using gum or mints can be helpful as well, but Chesnut says it is important to make sure it is sugar-free. Xylitol can reduce the amount of harmful bacteria and stimulate saliva.

Her number one piece of advice?

“Seeing your dentist and dental hygienist for routine cleanings and exams and having a thorough oral hygiene routine.”