If you suffer from bad breath or notice a persistent bad taste in your mouth, book an appointment with your dentist. They can check whether the cause is related to your oral health.

Bacteria that cause gum disease can live below the gumline and produce volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs) - the gases most often responsible for halitosis. These bacteria can also cause gum inflammation, even when obvious symptoms aren’t visible.

If your dentist rules out gum disease or other dental causes, see your doctor. Medical conditions such as sinus infections, diabetes, or metabolic disorders can also contribute to bad breath.

Common causes of halitosis include gum disease and poor oral hygiene. You can help prevent or reduce bad breath by:

• Brushing your teeth at least twice daily with fluoride toothpaste
• Cleaning between your teeth once per day (using floss or interdental brushes)
• Cleaning your tongue daily to reduce bacteria and improve breath freshness
• Limiting sugary snacks and drinks, which fuel bacterial growth

Waterpik™ Water Flossers for bad breath

A Waterpik Water Flosser is a more effective interdental cleaning solution. Clinical studies show it can:

• Disrupt bacteria beneath the gumline
• Reduce plaque and bleeding from gum inflammation
• Improve gum health more effectively than string floss alone

Waterpik products are clinically proven to reduce gingivitis, remove plaque, and support healthier gums - which in turn can help combat persistent bad breath.

➡ For NHS advice, see NHS – Bad breath (halitosis).