Why Does Bad Breath Persist Even After Brushing Your Teeth? Tongue, Floss, and Saliva Can Change Your Breath Management

The primary reason bad breath persists even after brushing is that anaerobic bacteria break down protein residues left in the spaces between teeth, periodontal pockets, and on the tongue's surface, producing volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs). Additionally, a reduction in saliva due to medications, mouth breathing, caffeine, alcohol, or dehydration decreases the mouth's self-cleaning ability, making odors more pronounced. Factors such as diet (garlic, onions), smoking, periodontal disease, postnasal drip, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) also contribute. Countermeasures include: ① physically removing biofilm with daily flossing and tongue cleaning, ② protecting saliva flow with hydration, sugar-free gum, and non-alcoholic antibacterial mouthwash, ③ avoiding triggers like morning coffee, smoking, and strong alcohol-containing mouthwashes, and ④ consulting a dentist, ENT specialist, or gastroenterologist if there is no improvement. On social media, there are numerous mentions of "lack of flossing," "tongue coating," "postnasal drip and tonsil stones," and "GERD," with a recommended approach of two weeks of continuous care followed by a consultation if symptoms persist.