Fresh Breath Insights 2025: SA Dentists Reveal What Works

A recent survey of South African dental professionals revealed the widespread problem of bad breath (halitosis) and the need for practical solutions to maintain fresh breath.

The Fresh Breath Insights 2025 Survey – conducted by Ivohealth/Ivodent in partnership with global oral care brand GUM – invited dental professionals to participate online via email and social media, including the South African Dental Association (SADA)’s social media platforms.

With 170 respondents from across the industry – including general dentists, specialists, oral hygienists and dental assistants – the survey provides a valuable South African perspective on bad breath and oral hygiene. 

100% of participants agreed that patients need more education on the causes and treatment of bad breath. Let’s dive into their insights and recommended solutions.

How Common is Bad Breath?

You are not alone if you’ve ever worried about having bad breath! The survey found that:

✅ 93% of dental professionals say their patients mention concerns about bad breath.

✅ 44% believe their patients experience bad breath regularly.

Almost half of patients potentially struggle with halitosis, so why is it still a topic that many people hesitate to discuss?

Why Don’t People Talk About Bad Breath?

Even though bad breath is common, it remains a sensitive subject. The survey found that while most dental professionals feel comfortable discussing halitosis, some still hesitate due to:

• Fear of offending the patient (54%)
• Patient embarrassment (47%)
• Limited time during consultations (24%)

But here’s the good news: your dentist or oral hygienist wants to help, and they have the expertise and tools to do so.

Top Causes of Bad Breath

What do SA dental professionals say is the #1 cause of bad breath? Poor oral hygiene.

🦷 Poor oral hygiene – 92%
🦷 Gum disease – 87%
🦷 Smoking & tobacco use – 74%
🦷 Diet & food choices – 51%
🦷 Medical conditions (e.g., sinus infections, acid reflux) – 51%
🦷 Dry mouth (xerostomia) – 50%

Other factors included fasting (32%), mouth breathing and using alcohol-based mouth rinses.

For many South Africans, economic hardship makes maintaining good oral health more challenging, reinforcing the importance of affordable and accessible dental solutions. As one respondent stated, “Clients are often unable to afford something as basic as toothpaste, toothbrushes, or mouth rinse.”

Understanding these causes is the first step to overcoming halitosis and restoring fresh breath.

Dental Professional Approved Solutions for Fresh Breath

While many people reach for mints or mouthwash, dental professionals say the key to achieving fresh breath is usually as simple as improving your daily oral hygiene routine.

The top three solutions:

1. Clean your tongue daily: 88% say this is the most valuable solution. Bacteria and debris on the tongue are major culprits of bad breath. (Here’s expert advice on how to clean your tongue in a few simple steps.) 
2. Floss or use an interdental cleaner: Regular brushing isn’t enough. Cleaning between the teeth is essential to remove trapped food and plaque. (If you don’t know, here’s how to ‘floss like a boss’.) 
3. Regular oral hygiene treatments: If you struggle with persistent bad breath, have a professional clean with a dentist or oral hygienist. (EMS Guided Biofilm Therapy is a revolutionary professional oral hygiene treatment from Switzerland, now available at over 70+ practices across South Africa. You can find your closest here.)

Because the bacteria that cause bad breath thrive in a dry mouth, it’s unsurprising that dental professionals also recommend:

• Tackling chronic dry mouth (xerostomia)
• Staying hydrated
• Avoiding smoking and alcohol (including alcohol-based mouthwashes)

All of these can dry out your mouth. For more information, check out our expert guide to managing dry mouth.

Take the Fresh Breath Challenge!

Do you have bad breath? For real confidence, take the quick online Bad Breath Check. You’ll assess how your breath scores and get expert tips for improvement.

Or dive deeper – here’s our Ultimate Guide to Beating Bad Breath.

Remember, your dentist or oral hygienist is your best ally in fighting bad breath. 

Don’t be afraid to ask for professional help. This survey shows dental professionals are committed to helping you achieve fresh breath and healthy smiles. 

Key Takeaways

Bad breath doesn’t have to be embarrassing or ignored. By understanding the causes and taking simple steps to improve your oral hygiene routine, fresh breath is within reach. 

Ready to get fresher? Start with the Bad Breath Check today.