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Bad breath

Bad breath (sometimes called halitosis) is very common. You can usually treat it yourself.

Prescription review online

Prescription review online

A doctor will review your case and issue a prescription if medically appropriate.

Talk to a doctor online

Talk to a doctor online

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

This page provides general information and does not replace a doctor’s consultation. If symptoms are severe, persistent or worsening, seek medical advice promptly.

Bad breath (sometimes called halitosis) is very common. You can usually treat it yourself.

How to treat bad breath yourself

The best way of making sure you do not have bad breath is to keep your teeth, tongue and mouth clean.

Do

  • gently brush your teeth and gums at least twice a day for 2 minutes

  • use a fluoride toothpaste

  • gently clean your tongue once a day using a tongue scraper or cleaner

  • clean between your teeth with interdental brushes or floss at least once a day

  • get regular dental check-ups

  • keep dentures (false teeth) clean and remove them at night

  • use sugar-free mints or chewing gum after having strong-smelling food and drinks

  • try using an antibacterial mouthwash or toothpaste

Don’t

  • do not smoke

  • do not drink too much alcohol

  • do not rinse your mouth with water straight after brushing your teeth

  • do not have lots of sugary foods and drinks

  • do not brush so hard your gums or tongue bleed

Causes of bad breath

Causes of bad breath include:

  • eating or drinking strong-smelling or spicy foods and drinks
  • problems with your teeth or gums, such as gum disease, holes in your teeth or an infection
  • fasting or crash dieting
  • some medical conditions, like dry mouth, tonsillitis and acid reflux
  • smoking

See a dentist if you have:

  • bad breath that does not go away after treating it yourself for a few weeks
  • painful, bleeding or swollen gums
  • toothache or wobbly adult teeth
  • problems with your dentures
Consult with a doctor about Bad breath

Consult with a doctor about Bad breath

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps with a doctor online.

Online doctors for Bad breath

Discuss your symptoms and possible next steps for Bad breath with a doctor online.

5.0 (939)
Doctor

Alina Tsurkan

Family medicine 13 years exp.

Dr. Alina Tsurkan is a licensed family medicine physician based in Portugal, offering online consultations for adults and children. She provides professional primary care, with a focus on prevention, accurate diagnosis, and long-term management of acute and chronic conditions.

Dr. Tsurkan supports patients with a wide range of health issues, including:

  • Respiratory infections: cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia, and lingering coughs.
  • ENT conditions: sinusitis, tonsillitis, otitis (ear infections), sore throat, allergic rhinitis.
  • Eye conditions: allergic or infectious conjunctivitis, red eyes, irritation.
  • Digestive issues: acid reflux (GERD), gastritis, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), constipation, bloating, nausea.
  • Urinary and reproductive health: urinary tract infections (UTIs), cystitis, prevention of recurrent infections.
  • Chronic diseases: hypertension, elevated cholesterol, weight management.
  • Neurological complaints: headaches, migraines, sleep disturbances, fatigue, general weakness.
  • Children’s health: fever, infections, digestive issues, follow-ups, vaccination guidance.

She also provides:

  • IMT medical certificates for driving licence exchange in Portugal.
  • Personalised preventive care and wellness consultations.
  • Interpretation of test results and medical reports.
  • Follow-up care and medication review.
  • Support in managing multiple coexisting conditions.
  • Remote prescription management and medical documentation.

Dr. Tsurkan’s approach is evidence-based and holistic. She works closely with each patient to develop an individualised care plan that addresses both symptoms and root causes. Her goal is to empower patients to take control of their health and maintain well-being through lifestyle adjustments, routine check-ups, and early intervention.

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€55
0.0 (0)
Doctor

Joao Silva

General medicine 6 years exp.

Dr. João Silva is a physician with training and experience in the field of General and Family Medicine, dedicated to providing healthcare focused on the well-being and quality of life of his patients. Throughout his professional career, he has developed broad clinical competencies, striving to maintain a medical practice based on scientific evidence and continuous knowledge updates.

Between 2013 and 2019, he completed the Integrated Master's Degree in Medicine at the Abel Salazar Institute of Biomedical Sciences in Porto, where he acquired a solid academic and clinical education.

Subsequently, between January 2021 and December 2021, he completed the General Internship at the Entre Douro e Vouga Hospital Center in Santa Maria da Feira, where he had the opportunity to work in different hospital settings and deepen his competencies in several areas of medicine.

From January 2022 until March 2026, he works as a Resident Physician in General and Family Medicine at USF Salvador Machado in Oliveira de Azeméis, developing clinical activities in primary healthcare, follow-up of chronic patients, and health promotion in the community.

Complementing his medical training, Dr. João Silva also completed a Postgraduate Degree in Continuing and Palliative Care at CESPU, strengthening his preparation in the comprehensive approach to patient care, especially in situations requiring prolonged care and multidisciplinary support.

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€61
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