Bad breath is something that everyone will experience from time to time. But for some, it can be a chronic issue that causes embarrassment and social anxiety.

The tricky thing about bad breath is that it’s hard to smell it on yourself. Fortunately, there are several ways to tell if your breath is less than fresh.

What Causes Bad Breath?

Before we dive into how to check your breath, let’s take a quick look at what causes it in the first place. Some common contributors to bad breath include:

• Poor oral hygiene (not brushing or flossing regularly)
• Certain foods like garlic, onions, and spices
• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Dry mouth (often a side effect of medications)
• Chronic health conditions like sinus infections, acid reflux, or diabetes
• Tooth decay or gum disease

In most cases, bad breath results from bacteria, which eat leftover food particles and produce compounds that smell, well, bad. Other times, the causes are a little trickier to find. So if you do find you have bad breath, and brushing and flossing twice a day for two minutes doesn’t seem to help, it may be time to see your dentist.

How to Check Your Own Breath

So, how can you discreetly check if your breath smells less than fresh? Here are a few simple ideas:

A Bad Taste in Your Mouth

Before you even have to test anything, think about whether you have a bad taste in your mouth. Taste and smell work in similar ways biologically. A simple bad taste can mean a bad smell.

The Wrist Test

This test is simple, and a benefit is that it can be done anywhere at any time. Simply lick your wrist and wait 5-10 seconds for the saliva to dry, then take a whiff. If you detect an unpleasant odor, it’s likely your breath smells similar.

The Floss Test

If you have floss handy, you can get an even better gauge than the wrist test. Floss between your back teeth, then smell the floss. If it has a strong, unpleasant odor, it’s a sign that your breath may be less than fresh.

The Cotton Ball Test

No floss on hand? Try a cotton ball, a piece of gauze, or even a tissue or napkin. Simply wipe the back of your tongue and give it a sniff. An unpleasant odor can indicate bad breath.

When in Doubt, Ask

It’s important to understand that your sense of smell can become accustomed to your own breath, so these tests may not be 100% reliable. If you’re still unsure, consider asking a trusted friend or family member for an honest opinion.

Preventing Bad Breath

The best way to combat bad breath is through a consistent oral hygiene routine.

• Brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste
• Floss at least once per day to remove food particles and plaque between teeth
• Clean your tongue daily with a tongue scraper or soft toothbrush
• Stay hydrated to prevent dry mouth
• Limit odor-causing foods and beverages
• Quit smoking or tobacco use
• Chew sugar-free gum if you want a quick refresh

If you’re doing all the right things but still struggle with stubborn bad breath, it’s time to talk to your dentist. We can help identify the underlying cause and develop a personalized treatment plan.

If you suspect you have chronic bad breath, call to schedule a check-up today to rule out underlying oral health issues and discuss treatment options.