Possible causes
Common possible causes.
Plaque and food debris around teeth or the tongue
Gum inflammation or periodontal disease
Dry mouth
Untreated dental decay or infection
Smoking or tobacco use
Non-dental causes that may need medical assessment
Warning signs
Signs worth paying attention to.
Bad breath that persists despite normal oral hygiene
Bleeding or swollen gums
Loose teeth or gum recession
Dental pain, swelling or an unpleasant taste
When to seek care
When to see a dentist.
Arrange a dental check-up when bad breath is persistent or occurs with signs of gum or tooth problems.
If dental causes are excluded, your dentist may suggest discussing other possible causes with a medical professional.
Why assessment matters
Similar symptoms can have different causes.
The most appropriate next step depends on the cause of the symptom, your oral health and what is found during assessment.
The information on this page can help you understand the concern, but it should not be used to choose treatment without professional assessment.
Explore further
Related dental treatments
These links are provided for further reading. A related treatment is not necessarily suitable for every person experiencing this symptom.