
Do Probiotics Help With Bad Breath? The Gut Health Connection
Bad breath isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it’s a widespread issue affecting millions.
According to the National Institute of Dental Research, around 65 million Americans experience halitosis at some point in their lives, while 50% of adults struggle with it occasionally.
Even more concerning, research suggests that over 80 million Americans suffer from chronic halitosis, a persistent condition that mouthwash and mints can’t simply fix.
Traditional solutions like mouthwashes, gum, and breath fresheners only offer temporary relief, but recent research is pointing to a deeper cause—your gut and oral microbiome. Could probiotics, commonly known for supporting digestive health, also be the key to combating bad breath at its source?
Let’s explore the science behind probiotics and their potential role in fighting halitosis—and whether they’re the game-changer you’ve been looking for.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Key Takeaways
- Probiotics help balance oral microbiota, reducing odor-causing bacteria.
- Specific probiotic strains like Lactobacillus reuteri and Streptococcus salivarius may combat bad breath.
- Probiotics also promote oral health by preventing plaque buildup, reducing inflammation, and controlling gum disease.
- Probiotic-rich foods and supplements can be easily incorporated into daily oral care routines.
What Causes Bad Breath?
Bad breath, or halitosis, isn’t just a minor inconvenience—it can impact confidence, social interactions, and even indicate underlying health issues. While diet and oral hygiene play a role, the root cause often lies in bacterial imbalances. Here are the most common culprits behind persistent bad breath:
- Poor Oral Hygiene – Inadequate brushing and flossing allow plaque and food particles to accumulate, creating the perfect environment for bacteria to thrive and release foul-smelling compounds.
- Oral Bacterial Overgrowth – Certain bacteria on the tongue, gums, and between teeth produce volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs) like hydrogen sulfide and methyl mercaptan, causing odors resembling rotten eggs or decayed food.
- Dietary Choices – Foods like garlic, onions, and coffee contain strong-smelling compounds that linger in the mouth and bloodstream, leading to persistent bad breath.
- Tobacco & Alcohol Use – Both contribute to dry mouth, reducing saliva production. Since saliva naturally washes away bacteria, a lack of it intensifies odor.
- Gut Imbalances – A disrupted gut microbiome can encourage the overgrowth of harmful bacteria, releasing unpleasant-smelling gases that may travel from the digestive tract to the mouth.
According to Dr. Michael Ruscio, DC, DNM, adjunct professor and clinical researcher, a recent study revealed that gut-related halitosis can be effectively treated by addressing digestive imbalances. In fact, 99% of participants who resolved their underlying gut issues also eliminated bad breath. This groundbreaking insight highlights the strong connection between gut microbiota and oral health. [9]
While brushing, flossing, and mouthwash are essential for managing bad breath, they only address surface-level issues. The key to long-term fresh breath lies in balancing both oral and gut microbiota.
So, how can probiotics play a role in eliminating bad breath at its source? Let’s explore the science behind their effectiveness.
Do Probiotics Help With Bad Breath?
Probiotics—beneficial bacteria that support digestive and immune health—may also play a role in managing bad breath. Research suggests that an imbalanced oral microbiome, where harmful bacteria outcompete beneficial species, is a major contributor to halitosis.
A systematic review of seven studies concluded:
"It seems that probiotics (e.g., Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus reuteri, Streptococcus salivarius, and Weissella cibaria) may relieve halitosis in the short term (≤4 weeks)." (Huang et al., 2022) [1].
This suggests that probiotics may help by restoring microbial balance in the mouth and gut. But what other benefits do they offer for oral health?
Benefits of Oral Probiotics

May Prevent Plaque
One of the lesser-known but important benefits of oral probiotics is their potential to inhibit plaque formation. Certain strains, including Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, have been shown to combat bacteria responsible for plaque buildup.
A study conducted by the National Research Institute of Romania examined dogs with varying degrees of dental disease. Researchers found that probiotics effectively suppressed the growth of Staphylococcus, Streptococcus, Pasteurella, and Neisseria—bacteria known to contribute to plaque (Csilla Zambori et al., 2016) [2].
While human studies are still needed, these findings suggest that probiotics may play a similar role in reducing plaque formation in people.
Fight Bad Breath
As discussed earlier, probiotics can help restore microbial balance in the mouth, which is key to controlling bad breath. A study on Streptococcus salivarius K12 found that this probiotic significantly reduced volatile sulfur compounds (VSCs)—the gases responsible for foul-smelling breath.
Thirteen participants with high VSC levels first rinsed with chlorhexidine for three days, then took probiotic lozenges for two weeks. The results showed that:
- Eight subjects had significantly lower VSC levels after one and two weeks of probiotic use.
- Three subjects saw improvement after the first week.
- Two subjects showed no change.
Further analysis revealed that S. salivarius K12 actively inhibited odor-causing bacteria, confirming its potential as a long-term solution for halitosis (Burton et al., 2005) [3].

Manage Symptoms Of Gingivitis
Probiotics have also been explored as a natural approach to managing gingivitis. A clinical review analyzing probiotic efficacy found reductions in key markers of gum inflammation, including:
- Bleeding on probing (BOP)
- Gingival index (GI) (a measure of gum redness and swelling)
- Plaque index (PI)
These findings indicate that probiotics may help alleviate gum disease symptoms by supporting a healthier balance of bacteria in the mouth (Akram et al., 2019) [4].
Reduce Inflammation From Gum Disease
Scientific evidence also suggests that probiotics can help combat gum inflammation, which is a major factor in periodontal disease.
In one study, participants with plaque-induced gingivitis consumed probiotic yogurt daily for 28 days. After four weeks, researchers observed significant reductions in inflammation markers, leading them to conclude that probiotic yogurt may help mitigate gingivitis (Slawik et al., 2011) [5].
These results highlight how probiotics can serve as an accessible and natural way to support overall gum health.
Oral probiotics do more than just freshen breath—they help restore balance to the oral microbiome, preventing the overgrowth of odor-causing bacteria. By promoting healthy bacterial strains, probiotics support gum health, reduce plaque buildup, and even combat inflammation. But not all probiotics are created equal.
With various strains available, which probiotic is truly the best for bad breath? Let’s explore the most effective options backed by research.
Which Probiotic Is Best For Bad Breath?

Certain probiotic strains have shown strong potential in reducing bad breath and improving oral health, including:
- Lactobacillus salivarius
- Lactobacillus reuteri
- Streptococcus salivarius
- Weissella cibaria
These strains have been extensively studied for their ability to lower VSC levels, reduce tongue coating scores (TCS), and improve plaque index (PI) (Huang et al., 2022) [6].
You can find these beneficial bacteria in fermented foods, high-quality probiotic supplements, and specialized oral health products designed to promote a healthier microbiome.
Oral Probiotics Foods Source

Before using any method to supplement probiotics, the first thing you should remember is that they are especially rich in our daily food sources. Food sources rich in Probiotics include:
- Yogurt: Rich in Lactobacillus, Bifidobacterium, and other beneficial bacteria.
- Kefir: A fermented milk beverage, abundant in probiotics.
- Miso, Tempeh: Fermented soybean products that also contain probiotics.
-
Kimchi, pickles, pickled mustard greens: Fermented vegetables containing lactic acid bacteria that benefit the body.
To better understand the probiotic content in these foods, here is an estimated breakdown of their probiotic levels:
Food |
Probiotic Levels (CFU) |
Probiotic Strains |
Yogurt |
10⁶ - 10⁸ CFU/gram |
Lactobacillus acidophilus, Bifidobacterium bifidum |
Kefir |
10⁷ - 10¹⁰ CFU/ml |
Lactobacillus kefiri, Saccharomyces kefir, Bifidobacteria |
Sauerkraut |
10⁸ CFU/gram |
Lactobacillus plantarum, Leuconostoc mesenteroides |
Kimchi |
10⁷ - 10⁹ CFU/gram |
Lactobacillus kimchii, Lactobacillus brevis |
Miso |
10⁵ - 10⁸ CFU/gram |
Aspergillus oryzae, Lactobacillus spp. |
Tempeh |
10⁴ - 10⁶ CFU/gram |
Rhizopus oligosporus, Lactobacillus spp. |
Pickles |
10⁶ - 10⁸ CFU/gram |
Lactobacillus spp. |
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the type of ingredients, fermentation method, fermentation duration, and storage conditions.
In addition to obtaining probiotics from natural food sources, people can also improve their oral health and combat bad breath through various probiotic-based products.
While fermented foods provide beneficial bacteria that support gut health, targeted probiotic formulations specifically designed for oral care can deliver even more direct benefits.
How to Use Probiotics for Bad Breath and Oral Health
Gum
Probiotic chewing gums and lozenges provide a simple and enjoyable way to introduce beneficial bacteria into your mouth. These products are widely available in pharmacies and online, making them an easy addition to your daily routine.
Some toothpaste and mouthwash formulations now contain probiotics designed to support microbial balance in the oral cavity. Using these as part of your regular oral hygiene routine can help maintain a healthier oral microbiome.
Toothpaste
Nowadays, there are also some toothpastes that contain probiotics that can help you supplement the process of protecting your teeth. With these products, you just need to brush your teeth after breakfast or twice a day as usual to add probiotics to your oral cavity.
This will be a suitable choice for those who do not like sweets/gum and want to save time on health care. However, the amount of information probiotics can add in this way remains uncertain, and the potential for use is much more limited than with other formulations.
Mouthwash
Besides toothpaste, a similar product, probiotic mouthwash, can also be added to your oral health routine to alleviate bad breath. Not only does it help wash away food residue, mouthwash provides additional probiotics to the mouth area.
Regarding usage, dentists recommend that you rinse your mouth after brushing your teeth to avoid toothbrush foam and water washing away the mouthwash solution.
Supplements
For a more targeted approach, probiotic supplements—especially chewable tablets and lozenges—can be a convenient and effective option for improving oral health and reducing bad breath.
Unlike traditional probiotic supplements that focus on gut health, these are specifically formulated to introduce beneficial bacteria directly into the oral microbiome, helping to outcompete odor-causing bacteria.
When choosing a probiotic supplement for oral health, look for strains such as:
- Streptococcus salivarius K12 & M18 – Known for their ability to reduce bad breath, inhibit harmful bacteria, and support gum health.
- Lactobacillus reuteri – Helps control plaque buildup and promotes a healthier oral microbiome.
- Lactobacillus paracasei – Supports enamel protection and reduces cavity-causing bacteria.
- Lactobacillus salivarius – One of the most effective strains for reducing bad breath, L. salivarius helps suppress harmful bacteria like Porphyromonas gingivalis and Fusobacterium nucleatum, both of which are linked to gum disease and halitosis. Studies suggest it can also help with inflammation and overall gum health.
Many users have reported positive results in the probiotics supplement’s review. Johan Van Aarde, for instance, shared his experience:
"I used the whole bottle, and these are definitely effective. Just give it time. The taste is not too bad—I let them dissolve in my mouth." *
A growing number of people struggling with chronic bad breath have turned to probiotic supplements for relief, also sharing their experiences in online discussions. One particularly insightful conversation highlighted how Streptococcus salivarius K12 helped a user overcome five years of persistent halitosis.*
Based on the discussion, 64.3% of the comments expressed positive sentiment toward the effectiveness of probiotic supplements, particularly Streptococcus salivarius K12.
Another individual recounted how no amount of mints or oral hygiene could mask the "poop-like" smell of their breath. They were hesitant to talk close to others and even had a colleague step back during a conversation. After starting probiotic supplements and cutting out sugar, they noticed a dramatic improvement.
However, results aren’t always immediate. One user warned:
"Start with half a pill and see how your stomach feels first. It caused major bloating for me in the first two days, plus constipation. But it got easier afterward. Also, cut down on sweets during this time—bad bacteria feeds on sugar."*
Another key takeaway from the discussion was that timing matters. Some users found that probiotics work best when taken 30 minutes before a meal, particularly with oatmeal and milk, as suggested in related studies.
Side Effects of Oral Supplements
While probiotics are generally safe, a systematic review on their side effects in adults with inflammatory bowel disease noted mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including nausea, bloating, and changes in stool patterns (Dore et al., 2019) [7]. However, these effects were temporary and typically resolved on their own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Probiotic Should I Take For Bad Breath?
Probiotics that you should try include Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus reuteri, Streptococcus salivarius and Weissella cibaria,... These are probiotics that have been tested for effectiveness in many different studies on relieving bad breath symptoms.
How Long Does It Take For Probiotics To Cure Bad Breath?
Typically, in the short term (less than 4 weeks, studies have observed a slight reduction in bad breath). However, for each person with different diet, living and eating habits, and different conditions, this time may be shorter or longer.
How Do You Fix Bad Breath From Your Gut?
To completely resolve bad breath originating from the intestines, supplementing with probiotics is also an effective solution. However, if the cause comes from a medical condition, see a doctor for a thorough solution.
Can Lack Of Probiotics Cause Bad Breath?
Sure. In particular, a lack of probiotics in the oral cavity leads to an imbalance in the microbiological environment and allows harmful, odor-causing bacteria to multiply and develop in the oral cavity, which is a major cause of bad breath.
Can Probiotics Cause Change In Taste In Mouth?
Maybe. Although this symptom is not common, many reports suggest that probiotics can cause changes in taste. Analyzing the side effects of probiotics, the results showed that there were also symptoms related to “unpleasant taste in the mouth”. (Dore, et al. 2019) [8].
Conclusion
Probiotics are a powerful tool for improving oral health and combating bad breath. When combined with proper oral hygiene and regular dental care, they can significantly enhance microbial balance in the mouth, helping to reduce halitosis and support overall wellness.
References
- [1] [6] Huang, Nengwen, et al. “Efficacy of Probiotics in the Management of Halitosis: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” BMJ Open, vol. 12, no. 12, BMJ, Dec. 2022, pp. e060753–53, https://doi.org/10.1136/bmjopen-2022-060753.
- [2]. Csilla Zambori, et al. “Antimicrobial Effect of Probiotics on Bacterial Species from Dental Plaque.” The Journal of Infection in Developing Countries, vol. 10, no. 03, Open Learning on Enteric Pathogens, Mar. 2016, pp. 214–21, https://doi.org/10.3855/jidc.6800.
- [3] Burton, JP, et al. “O17 Effect of Probiotic Streptococcus Salivarius K12 on Oral Malodour Parameters.” Oral Diseases, vol. 11, no. s1, Mar. 2005, pp. 103–3, https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1601-0825.2005.01105_17.x.
- [4] Akram, Z., et al. “Clinical Efficacy of Probiotics in the Treatment of Gingivitis: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis.” Australian Dental Journal, vol. 65, no. 1, Wiley, Nov. 2019, pp. 12–20, https://doi.org/10.1111/adj.12733.
- [5] Slawik, S., et al. “Probiotics Affect the Clinical Inflammatory Parameters of Experimental Gingivitis in Humans.” European Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vol. 65, no. 7, Springer Science and Business Media LLC, Mar. 2011, pp. 857–63, https://doi.org/10.1038/ejcn.2011.45.
- [7] [8] Dore, Maria Pina, et al. “Side Effects Associated with Probiotic Use in Adult Patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.” Nutrients, vol. 11, no. 12, Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute, Dec. 2019, pp. 2913–13, https://doi.org/10.3390/nu11122913.
- [9] (2025). Youtube.com. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZZREivQ4_k
Testimonial Disclaimer
*The testimonials presented on this website are provided by individuals based on their personal experiences with our products. These testimonials represent individual opinions and experiences, which may not be typical or applicable to all users of our products. Results may vary depending on a variety of factors, including individual health, lifestyle, and adherence to product usage instructions.Author

Product Disclaimer
The dietary supplement products mentioned on this website are formulated based on scientific research and adhere to FDA guidelines for dietary supplements. However, the content of the articles has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is not intended to promote or endorse any specific product. Any products sold on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Opinions and Endorsements
Any claims, statements, or opinions expressed in the articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the manufacturers of the dietary supplement products. The products sold on this website are separate from the content of the articles and are not directly endorsed or associated with the information presented here.
Liability Disclaimer
The author(s) of the articles, website, and manufacturers of the dietary supplement products do not assume any liability for any potential consequences arising from the use of the information provided in the articles. It is recommended that individuals consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, including the use of dietary supplements.
Product Usage
Please refer to the product labels and packaging for specific usage instructions and guidelines for the dietary supplement products sold on this website.
Customer Support
For any concerns or questions regarding the dietary supplement products, please contact our customer support team, who will be more than happy to assist you.
Leave a Comment
Be the first to comment.
What do you think?