Bad breath can be caused by poor oral hygiene, dry mouth, certain foods, or smoking. Prevent it by brushing and flossing regularly, staying hydrated, using mouthwash, avoiding strong-smelling foods, and visiting your dentist.

If you have a toothache, rinse your mouth with warm water, floss gently to remove any trapped food, and take over-the-counter pain relievers. Avoid hot, cold, or sugary foods. Contact your dentist as soon as possible for an evaluation and treatment.