Bad Breath Overview

Bad breath is a common concern and can vary by time of day, hydration, diet, and daily routine. In most cases, breath odour relates to patterns within the mouth and upper airway rather than a single isolated “cause”.

This overview explains the most common contributors we see in practice, the indicators people notice, and where to go next for deeper education pages.

What “bad breath” usually refers to

Bad breath is typically described as an unwanted odour noticed on exhalation or during speech. Because perception varies (and odour fluctuates), it can help to look for timing patterns and repeatable indicators rather than relying on a single moment.

Common contributors (the big buckets)

• Tongue surface build-up (especially towards the back of the tongue)
• Gum margins and under-gum areas where biofilm can accumulate
• Dry mouth patterns (overnight, dehydration, mouth breathing, lifestyle factors)
• Throat and post-nasal drip factors that can influence perceived odour
• Diet and timing (foods, fasting/ketone patterns, coffee/alcohol effects on dryness)

Indicators people commonly notice

• Morning-only odour (often linked with reduced saliva overnight)
• Odour that persists through the day (often linked with routine consistency or oral factors)
• Dry or sticky mouth feeling (especially on waking)
• Taste changes such as metallic or sour notes
• Throat sensations such as post-nasal drip or debris in the tonsil area

Why measurement can help

Because breath is difficult to judge reliably by perception alone, objective measurement can provide a consistent reference point. In clinic-led cases, measurement is considered alongside oral observation and routine review.

Learn more: OralChroma™ Breath Analysis.

Where to go next

• Causes of bad breath (contributing factors explained)
• Symptoms & clinical indicators (how patterns are interpreted)
• Tongue-related odour (why the tongue is often central)
• Morning breath & throat factors (timing and upper airway)
• Clinical case studies (how assessment is applied in practice)
• Our solution (KForce routine-based system)