Doctor-Approved Treatments for Bad Breath

Tea-Tree Oil

How it works: This plant-derived oil has antibacterial properties, says Margo Marrone, a pharmacist and a homeopath based in London. Put a few drops directly on your toothbrush and brush the back of your tongue and along your gumline, then spit out any excess. The oil will kill some of the odor-generating bacteria that can lurk in those parts.

Good to know: Because experts aren’t sure what effects essential oils may have on women who are pregnant or breast-feeding, they recommend that women avoid tea-tree oil during these times.